Art Retreat

Welcome Center on the I39. Why did I not grab a map?

This is how you indicted if you wanted the room cleaned. I cracked up.

One of the exhibition pieces

Incredible work by this artis

Different artist, same exhibition

I took this pic to prove to Cathy I really was adding something to the exhibition

One of Seth's pieces for sale in the classroom

The second piece for sale in the classroom

This is Seth's from the art exhibition

Side street in downtown Mineral Point

High street, which is the main drag

First of all, I learned a very valuable lesson in using GPS. DO NOT TRUST THEM! EVER! I had printed out the directions from Mapquest, but didn't pay a lot of attention to them. I was going to use the GPS that is on my Ford Escape. Unbeknown to me, there were at least three ways to get from Rockford, IL. to Mineral Point, WI., from I-39. I followed the GPS which took me due north to Beloit, then Madison, then back south and to the west to get to Mineral Point because THAT way was mostly expressway. I didn't care, but once you are in an unknown to you area, you have to rely on that voice inside the dash.

Added 85 miles and 2 hours to the trip due to traffic. I was pissed!

To go home, I pulled out the Mapquest directions, read them, went and purchased a map of Wisconsin at the gas station for a whopping $6.99 (YEAH!), and figured out how to exit the state and not repeat all of that confusion and traffic mess. Going home? It took me 45 minutes from the motel to the Illinois state line. Through the most gorgeous country, rolling hills, quaint Amish buggies on their way to wherever they go on Sunday morning. (It isn't called church).

I don't have my photos from class organized yet, so we are starting with other people's art and the town. More tomorrow. If you are interested in outstanding art classes on a huge variety of subjects, and this includes metal working, blacksmithing, acrylic painting, water color, mixed media, assemblage, whatever, please get on the mailing list for Shake Rag Alley Workshops. Mineral Point, WI. I recommend staying at the Dairyland Motel. Clean and affordable. The town is beautiful, hilly, but unique in that each house is different. I didn't have a chance to tour the restored mansion and grounds, and wish I had. The next time I go, I will spend more time in the area.

The main street downtown, High Street, has a good variety of shops. Mostly antiques, art, limited art supplies, some jewelry. On the side streets were more art studios, a shop called MayPress, which sells all types of writing implements and paper goods, and a salvage shop. I purchased some metal stuff because it was cheap, and I knew eventually it will inspire me to do something. Restaurants in town are varied in what they serve. My favorite was Grey Dog Deli. The best Cuban sandwich I've ever had. No matter where you went for breakfast, you were asked if you wanted cheese and/or onion with your hash browns. It's Wisconsin. What else can I say?

Final note: if you have the opportunity to take any class from Seth Apter, do it. Don't hesitate. He is a fountain of information, and so patient with his students. He spent time walking around, talking to everyone, seeing how you were progressing. An incredible instructor. If Seth goes back next year for this art weekend event, I am so there.
Linda