What fun it was! Attending my first urban sketching retreat was a joy. This retreat was held in late February/early March at Taylor Hall, part of the character-filled DeKoven Center complex in Racine. Fortunately the weather was exceptionally nice for winter travel. Sponsored by the Racine Urban Sketchers group, the event was open to all enthusiasts of any ability. I’m a newbie to urban sketching and I still have a lot to learn about it. I was warmly welcomed and accepted. The multi-day retreat fee included lodging, 3 classes, and most meals. There were approx. 30 attendees, with a number of them from other states.
I stopped at several businesses while enroute from Madison to Racine. Schoolhouse Antiques, in Sturtevant was my first stop. Found some buttons, buckles, and other curiosities there. From there, I headed east, to Sew & Save in Racine. I bought two pieces of Riley Blake calico. I’m making blouses out of each of those fabrics. I’m embellishing the bubblegum pink blouse with vintage lace.
If you like to sew and you visit Racine, WI, you must stop at this store! Friendly owner and staff!
Taylor Hall, part of the DeKoven Center complex. Built in the late 1800's, this building housed retreat attendees. Wonderful meals cooked onsite added to a festive atmosphere.
All of the sleeping rooms have names/labels. My room was labeled "Abundance".
This room served as a classroom and meeting spot.
Several of the "throwdowns" during our retreat. This is when everyone displays their sketches. It's a fun, non-judgemental event!
Beautiful Lake Michigan is a short walk from Taylor Hall.
Pretty view on the DeKoven campus.
Meeting up with my friend, Denise Zingg was enjoyable. Denise and I attended the same high school here in Madison. I hadn't seen Denise in 50+ years,when I discovered she founded, and directs, the Spectrum School of the Arts in Racine. Spectrum is on DeKoven Center property!
All text and images ©️Suzanne Myers Otto
