July 10-12

Social gatherings and networking events are woven into the fabric of the retreat, allowing participants to forge new friendships and establish meaningful connections with like-minded individuals

Barn Quilter Express will be offering classes prior to the retreat for those interested. . Classes will not be taught at the retreat itself. Find out more.

What Is It All About?

The success of the previous year’s retreat has left a lasting impression, and everyone was eager to experience the magic once again. This year’s retreat promises to be even more extraordinary. We have expanded the program, adding an entire day filled with inspiring speakers, presentations, and hands-on activities.

The retreat will take place in charming Ashe County, NC, a haven nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The picturesque setting perfect for fostering creativity and inspiration. We are excited to support the Lost Province School for Cultural Arts in Lansing, NC. They are once again hosting this event. Attendees will have the chance to immerse themselves in nature, drawing energy fro the breathtaking surroundings.

The extra day includes a series of thought-provoking presentations by artists, instructors, and community involvement leaders. They will share their journeys, offer valuable tips and techniques, and encourage participants to delve deeper into their artistic practice. The volunteers have carefully curated a diverse lineup of speakers, ensuring that attendees would gain a well rounded understanding of the art form whether new to barn quilts, building a business, being an instructor or inviting community involvement.

Hands-on activities are also an integral part of the retreat. Workshops will be led by talented instructors providing attendees with the opportunity to refine their skills and explore new techniques. From mastering precision in drawing to experimenting with different techniques, the retreat offers a space for artists to expand their creative boundaries. However, it’s not all about work at the retreat. The volunteers understand the importance of fostering connections and building a supportive community.

The Barn Quilt Artist Retreat 2024 is sure to be an unprecedented success, surpassing all expectations. It is becoming a landmark event in the barn quilt community, leaving its mark on the lives of all who attend. As last year’s retreat came to a close, attendees left with their hearts full and their minds buzzing with new ideas. Friendships that blossomed during those days would continue to thrive, collaborations would flourish, and the barn quilt addiction would forever be infused with the energy and passion shared among the participants.

We are excited to have your attendance that will inspire and invigorate. You will carry a piece of the retreat’s magic with you--fall in love with the surroundings and all that Ashe County, NC has to offer. Your barn quilt addiction will forever be enriched by the experience shared.

Schedule

Wednesday

July 10

Thursday

July 11

Paint Party Social

(NOT a class)

9am-4pm

Option 1: Bring your own board & paints

Option 2: 2x2 board (primed and ready to paint) for $35

AND paints/tape for $25

Morning Kick Off

8:15am. Light refreshments

9-9:30 Intro/Purpose/Overview

9:30-10 The Great Paint Debate

15 minute break

BREAKOUT SESSIONS

10:45-12:15

Option 1: Point based patterns

Options 2: Beginning Instructors

Location: Lost Province Center for the Cultural Arts

LUNCH BREAK

12:15-1:15 - Catered

Meet & Greet

Wednesday July 10

6pm

Ashe Park

Ashe Park Rd. Jefferson, NC

BREAKOUT SESSIONS

1:15-2:45

Option 1: Circle Based Patterns

Option 2: Creating a Small Business

Facebook Marketing

15 minute break

3-3:30 Brush Care

3:30-4 Recording Barn Quilts &

Copy Rights

4-4:30 Q & A

Friday

July 12

Morning Kick Off

8:15am Light refreshments

9-10 Barn Quilts in the Community

15 Minute Break

BREAKOUT SESSIONS

10:15-11:45

Option 1: Circle Based Patterns

Option 2: Contract, Order Forms &

Unhappy Customers

LUNCH BREAK

11:45-12:45 - Catered

12:45-1:30 Craft Fairs

BREAKOUT SESSIONS

1:30-3

Option 1: Point Based Patterns

Option 2: Buffalo Check & Stencils

3:15 Q & A and Discussion on Creating

a Barn Quilters Guild

Dinner

6:30

Monte D Rey

1447 Mount Jefferson Rd

West Jefferson, NC

Speakers

Talara Parrish

Talara understands the importance of fostering connections and building a supportive community sharing the love of barn quilts. Her goal is to support and provide mentorships for all artists, no matter a beginner , hobbyist, instructor, or growing business. She brings experience of 16 years’ as an artist and designer for a portfolio of over 4,000 barn quilts.

Ashley Cone

After learning how to quilt, Ashley wanted a new challenge. She started her barn quilt painting addiction over a year ago. She enjoys teaching and sharing her experience of drawing and painting barn quilts. She lives on her family farm outside Greensboro, NC and enjoys the opportunity to hang with her dogs and paint barn quilts.

Marie Warda

With over 50 years of experience teaching quilting and sewing, Marie seamlessly transitioned into the role of a barn quilt painting instructor. Her workshops consistently draw a full attendance. Attracting returning students who appreciate her relaxed approach, valuable tips and guidance for achieving success. Marie considers organization, excitement, and a passion for creativity as her superpowers. She delights in imparting her wealth of knowledge to others. Marie resides in the beautiful finger lakes area of western New York and is the owner of 11th Hour Barn Quilts.

Deborah May

Deborah May of BARN QUILTER EXPRESS has traveled extensively for over 5 years offering workshops to a diverse group of people. In her workshops, painters gain knowledge and confidence. Barn quilting brings past and present together and is a unique way of sharing our lives and becoming more connected with each other.

Deanna Shuman

Deanna is a retired educator of 28 years. She was a school principal for 22 of her 28 years. Deanna has been painting barn quilts for almost 4 years. She offers classes and really enjoys doing these. Doing that has allowed her to meet so many wonderful people. It also satisfies the teacher in her.

Carol Mitchell

Carol Mitchell is a traveling instructor and gained recognition in starting the Memorial Wall in Taylorsville, NC. Each quilt pattern on the memorial wall is a symbol of remembrance, honoring the lives and legacies of individuals who have made a meaningful impact on the community. These patterns may bear the names, initials, or significant dates of those being commemorated, serving as a lasting tribute to their contributions and achievements

Tricia Johnston

Tricia is new to barn quilts but no stranger to teaching large groups painting home decor, sign making, etc. Having attended the 2023 BQ Retreat, she dove right in. She brings her experience of filling classes with Facebook marketing and growing a small business from her dining room table to a brick & mortar gift boutique with a dedicated workshop space in a few short years

Other Valuable Volunteers!

Debbie “Poe”

Debbie is a valuable asset to our team. She is a local resident and has jumped on board to assist in making our event a success. She handles location issues and jumps in where ever need. Not to mention a talented artist herself.

Brenda Witherspoon

Brenda is the life of the party and will be making sure all attendees are greeted and checked in for the event. Brenda is Talara‘s mom and Sophia‘s grandmother. She will be the first in the river for kayaking and on hand to answer any and all questions visitors to Ashe Co may have.

Darlene Burgess

Darlene has joined our volunteer team this year and is excited to be a huge part of the event. She plays the valuable role of finance manager and communicates needs to other volunteers based on ticket sales. Welcome!

Georgia Spaulding

Where would we be without our right and left hand help from Georgia. Whether picking up our catering, running errands and make sure all guest needs are met, she is much appreciated in keeping us on scheduled and organized along the way.

Sophia Knight

Sophia is an aspiring theatrical student at Lavilla School of the Arts in Jacksonville, Fl. She is our roving reporter and will be gathering interviews and reporting on social media during our event. You may have watched Sophia on many blog videos on BQH. She is sort of a celebrity of ours! Smile, she may be live!

Saturday

10:00 am

Kayaking

Join us for a relaxing float down the scenic New River, the 2nd oldest river in the world. It is a tranquil smooth trip with little or no paddling needed. The river is crystal clear and rarely over knee deep the whole route. There are no rapids to navigate and perfect for the first time kayak-er or the experienced enthusiast.

We will meet at 10am at New River Outfitters and they will transport us up the river for launching. There is an abundance of parking. You are welcome to bring your own kayak, if you have one. Picnic lunch is included.

We will float for 2 hours then stop at the New River State Park for lunch and a bathroom break. We will continue on to New River Outfitters. Estimated float will be 4.5 hours.

Feel free to bring your own coolers and refreshments. It is recommended to bring sunscreen, a towel, water shoes, and a change of clothes. Not a bad idea to bring waterproof case for cell phone, keys etc. Travel companions welcome and purchase a ticket for each person joining us. Double kayaks are not available.

Contact staff if you prefer a canoe for two at BQARvolunteers@outlook.com

Last Year’s Highlights

Barn Quilt Classes

With Deborah May of

BARN QUILTER EXPRESS

July 5, 6, 8 & 9th

Lost Province Center of Cultural Arts

Lansing, NC

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

All supplies included

Pattern Selection Available March 10th

2 x 2 - $140

3 x 3 - $225

4 x 4 - $ 295

Optional Fresh Salad Bar $15

For More Information

Link to Discover Accommodation Options: Ashe Chamber of Commerce

Meet others looking to share cabin rentals: Group Chat

Numerous vacation and cabin rentals are available and teaming up with others is a great way to make new friends and share the cost. Local hotels are few and can be costly.

Email: BQAVolunteers@ outlook.com

Facebook Group: Barn Quilt Artist Retreat 2024