I’ve planned a writing retreat for this fall because I have enjoyed contemplating my response to the Farm/Art DTour in past years and want to share that experience with others. Plus, I know how a small-group generative writing retreat can replenish one’s creative juices. Join me and fill your well!

Immerse yourself in the Farm/Art DTour, a multi-day event produced by the Wormfarm Institute, where rural landscapes meet creative expression. This retreat offers a unique opportunity to explore your personal responses to the site-responsive art installations and performances scattered along a scenic 50-mile route in Wisconsin’s Driftless Region.

Experience the magic of autumn in Sauk County while developing a personal essay under the guidance of an experienced writing instructor–your truly. Limited to five participants, this retreat promises an intimate and enriching environment for reflection and creativity.

What We’ll Do

Our retreat kicks off Thursday evening with a welcome dinner and an orientation to the Farm/Art DTour.

On Friday, after breakfast, we dive into a writing workshop focused on the Personal Essay, with prompts to spark creativity. We’ll prepare sack lunches and drive Loop 1 together, stopping for lunch with a farm host. The day ends with a traditional Wisconsin fish fry.

Saturday begins with solo writing time or a small group discussion, followed by a drive along Loop 2, lunch at the Witwen Food Chain, and interaction with Wormfarm staff and artists. The evening includes a group dinner and reflection.

On Sunday, we share our writings and reflect on the experience before preparing for departure with a sack lunch for the road.

Where We’ll Stay

I’m incredibly excited about the lodging I’ve arranged. I knew that if I couldn’t make our retreat home special, this retreat just wasn’t worth pursuing.

We’ll stay at the Abbey at Otter Creek, a new retreat/event center in rural Sauk County between Sauk City and Baraboo. Your spacious private room features a queen bed and comfortable furnishings, with some rooms offering en-suite bathrooms. The property includes a dining room, porch, kitchen, and the elegant Governor’s Mansion wing with a great room and library. Outdoors, you’ll find patios, gardens, and walking trails.

The Abbey’s land has a rich history, once home to the Ho-Chunk people and later a family farm. In the 1950s, it became a monastery for Cistercian nuns. Under renovation by the Marx family now, the estate blends historical charm with modern comforts. Enjoy the tranquil setting, perfect for inspiration and creativity.

You might want to extend your retreat experience by arriving earlier or staying later at the Abbey at Otter Creek. Sauk County has so much to offer!

Your creative spirit is calling. Will you answer?

Follow this link to download the brochure and read more about the retreat activities, lodgings, and what’s included in the price. To enroll, complete the registration form in the brochure and send it to me via email–sarah.white@firstpersonprod.com.

Application must be received by July 15. Places will be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. I’ll let you know if you’re accepted by August 1st.