A Review of the Shadra Strickland Unworkshop @ Highlights Foundation

A Selfie of Jeanne and Shadra

 

Shadra Strickland is the most interactive teacher I’ve ever had. She spent 30 minutes at one table and then another to touch everybody at meals.She structured a brain storming session and asked questions to engage us. She gives the opposite of a lecture.

(Show, don’t tell)

All the participants were published, so it was a group of professionals, not beginners.

Don kept accessing data for everyone and showing images on his tablets.That was an enormous help in grasping information. Shadra did the same.

The group in their twenties  in the Lodge got to brainstorm every evening.

The transition to the Gallery Opening was smooth.The chef caterers magnificent. They are so proud to work for the foundation. Shadra looked elegant and graceful at her opening. The untiring kitchen staff still provided supper after all the exotic appetizers.

Comments about the faculty: dignified,intelligent,great style,interactive,energetic,hard working ,talented speaker,artist,teacher, colleague, enlightened, affectionate, attentive, organized, grateful,and patient.

This is a many layered experience. the power flows both ways. Each individual adds to the symphony: wisdom, smarts, organizing, artistry, talent, perseverance and respect. They honor each other, even the children.

At winter workshops, you need to devise a way to have a fire indoors, especially when the snow and wind have frozen. Like a ski lodge, there should be a place to sit with slippers around the fire.

I love the way George calls his wife his bride, even though the children are over 10! And he looks at me and says”I love my children”, as if that would explain why they straightened out the library with their boots, and outerwear and toys.

My first experience of the Foundation was at Chatauqua. It was this enormous event with a huge family. And the leader was not Moses but a humble Kent. Now there is a humble George, and a vigorous Alison. They each have a glow about them, a light for the children to help them find their way!