May 4, 2023 - May 7, 2023
Highlights Foundation Campus
$799Overview
In-person 4-Day/3-Night, In-Community Retreat
This in-community retreat is for writers and illustrators from the Asian and Asian American Communities, with special hosts Grace Lin and Debbi Michiko Florence and their guests. It is an informally structured retreat, where the focus is on your own projects. We’ll also celebrate this diverse and talented community.
- An in-person retreat for creatives from the Asian and Asian American Communities writing and/or illustrating for kids and teens.
- During the retreat, you will guide your time to work on your own stories and connect with fellow creatives.
- Lodging and meals are included.
- Begins at 5:30pm Eastern on Thursday, May 4, 2023
- Ends with lunch at 12:00pm-1:00pm Eastern on Sunday, May 7, 2023
- 24 participants max
Why This Retreat?
This is an in-community retreat for creatives from the Asian and Asian American Communities. The retreat is lightly structured with informal gatherings as they arise among fellow writers and illustrators. The majority of the time reserved for your own creative retreat.
You can bring multiple projects with you at all stages of their process so that you can decide what you’d like to work on while you are at the retreat. In addition, we’ll provide opportunities for discussions about the children’s book publishing industry, and ways to support one another. (Plus some time for creative play in the Art Coop and beyond!)
Your retreat will be well appointed with space to create. Every accommodation option includes a personal workspace. You’ll find various spaces around the grounds to get work done or take in the natural settings for some inspiration.
No formal workshops, lectures, presentations, or critiques will take place. If you are interested in a craft-focused program, please review other upcoming workshops.
It’s a Great Fit If…
- You are an in-community creative at any experience level or stage in the creative process.
- You’d like a retreat where you can get to work. You structure your retreat. You’ll have time to focus on your stories in the community of fellow creatives.
- You’d like to build support and amplify the voices of our diverse and talented community.
Detailed Agenda
All times are Eastern Standard Time.
Pre-Retreat
One week prior to the program, you will receive a link to our virtual classroom where you can introduce yourself to fellow creatives and engage in Highlights Foundation related resources (including our Community Standards).
Day 1: Thursday, May 4
- 3pm – 5pm Eastern: Arrival and check in
- 5:30pm – 7pm: Appetizers & Dinner
- Following dinner: Welcome & Introductions (fireside, weather permitting)
Day 2: Friday, May 5
Morning:
- Breakfast
- Writing/Illustration time
Afternoon
- Lunch
- Writing/Illustration time
- Optional Art Coop exploration
Evening
- Appetizers & Dinner
- Publishing Discussion (fireside, weather permitting)
Day 3: Saturday, May 6
Morning:
- Breakfast
- Writing/Illustration time
Afternoon
- Lunch
- Writing/Illustration time
- Panel discussion: Industry, Inspiration, and Support
Evening
- Appetizers & Dinner
- Open Mic: Sharing and Celebrations!
Day 4: Sunday, May 7
Morning
- Breakfast
- Writing/Illustration time
Afternoon
- Lunch & farewells
Testimonials from Our Community
“It was a transformational experience for me.”
“Loved the balance and respect that we had for each other’s working time. When we were together, we socialized, but when we were heads-down, there was no unnecessary distractions.”
“This was the best camp and retreat experience ever!”
