what people say
One of the most incredible creative experiences of my life was traveling to Costa Rica to be an artist in residence learning mixed media creative processes from Hollie Heller at Art Retreat Tamarindo. I was inspired by Hollie’s show at the Delaware Art Museum in 2014. I knew I wanted to learn her process and was excited about traveling to the Art Retreat. I had such a wonderful time in Costa Rica! Hollie was so much fun to hang out with and very generous with her time when mentoring and teaching me. She encouraged me to be less exacting and freer with my methods of expression. To make it easy for the traveling artist, housing is available at one of Hollie’s gorgeous casitas and the studio is on the property as well.
The studio is a spacious design and accommodates several artists at one time. A studio fee is included in the art residency program. This is a bonus for someone who is traveling to Costa Rica and doesn’t want to be burdened taking materials with them. Hollie has an entire library of books, countless supplies and materials that she shares with visiting artists. I was the only artist in residence during my visit, but there were a few local women who came for lessons or open studios while I was working. This was not a distraction, but actually added to the atmosphere of creativity and brainstorming ideas. They were very welcoming and offered a wealth of information about Costa Rican life.
I stayed at one of the spacious casitas on the beautiful property that overlooks the ocean. It is absolutely breathtaking. I would highly recommend this option as opposed to staying in town. If I wanted to take a break from the studio, I was able to cool off in the pool, sit on the veranda, walk to the beach and enjoy sunsets from the property. Living at the casita had many advantages such as being able to be a few steps away from the studio workspace, which gave me 24-hour access. One can eat/cook at the residence or opt to go into town for an assortment of meal options. The restaurants in town have a variety of cuisines and price points. There is also a Thursday night open air market that was really fun. I met a lot of new people who were very friendly. I learned so about materials, composition, inspiration and creative ideas from working with Hollie. Her artwork continues to inspire me, and I look forward to going back to Costa Rica for another art residency!
Sharon C. Ostrow
Assistant Professor, Temple University
“Working with Hollie was a wonderful experience. She helped me arrange a personal workshop and residency at her beautiful studio in Tamarindo. I couldn’t have been happier with the experience. Hollie provides excellent instruction while encouraging creativity and personal project development. I had many goals in mind for my residency, and with the new techniques and materials I was exposed to I exceeded them. I highly encourage beginner through practicing artists to attend a workshop or residency with Hollie. I look forward to working with her again.” -Jared L. 2016
“Hollie was an amazing artist to work with. She opened my eyes and inner artist to newness; patterns and pieces I hadn’t considered before, interesting palettes of colors and playful compositions that weren’t immediately obvious. With her gentle guidance, she truly helped me find and release my creativity. I’m deeply thankful for the space she has created and Hollie’s thoughtful approach to teaching. Whether or not you’re looking for it, you’ll emerge from a class with her tapped in to your own unique eye and inner artist.” B.C. 2016
“I want to thank you so much for creating such a fun, supportive class (at Arrowmont) this month. I learned so much and it was great to be able to apply techniques you taught us to the realm of book arts. You really are an excellent instructor and I am just wowed by the artwork and installations you create. Plus you are fun to be around and that spills over in to class!”
V.B 2011
“I’m finally getting to thank you for the wonderful class at Wayne Art Center. You are so well organized and efficient. I couldn’t believe how much we got done each day. I’ve taught before and appreciate how much preparation that takes.”S.D. 2007
“I just wanted to thank you for sharing so many new techniques and combinations of approaches, patterns, ideas and methods. You were so generous with instruction. I had hoped to come home with a grand masterpiece which didn’t happen. What I did come home with is a wide expanse of new art forms to try and combine. I do believe that is infinitely more valuable in the long run.”
J.M. 2008
“Just wanted to take a moment to thank you for all the great art you’ve brought into my life yhe collage and the silk painting! I love everything!! You are a wonderful teacher. So willing to share and guide.”
J.S. 2010
“I can’t begin to tell you how much I enjoyed the class. I learned a lot and had so much fun. You are such a good instructor. You put everyone at ease. I’ve thought about you and everyone in the class since we left. Everyone was so creative and talented in their own way.”
C.R. 2011
“I can’t really find the words….. you have had the most profound impact on me. You are everything a teacher should be and I hope with all my heart, that I will be your student again.”
K.B. 2013
“It was more fun then I can even express. You are a wonderful teacher, so calm,so encouraging, and fun, your knowledge of your craft is superb. You were always thoughtful and even have water for us and wine for graduation is truly delightful. Your studio space is so inviting and creates a wonderful setting to create, and well need I say anything about the view. Thanks so much and I look forward to our next adventure.”
N.C. 2014
“Thanks for sharing your knowledge, your enthusiasm and yourself. Your support and encouragement were always heartfelt and appreciated. You are a born teacher!
L.M. 2013
“It was sooooooo good for me to get out of my little comfortable space! You have a delightful personality and convey your love and excitement about your art which I found very inspiring. I also enjoyed meeting all those interesting women and seeing their art. Thank you for all you did behind the scenes so the workshop would be such a success plus your overseeing all of our work.”
D.V. 2011