The IPCA officers and  committee members, all volunteers, work very hard to create programs and opportunities for all Association members, experienced and novice clayers alike.  The Synergy conferences have focused on elevating polymer clay in the professional craft community.  But the Association also envisioned a place for clay enthusiasts at every level to come together in a relaxed learning atmosphere--including even our newest members just discovering the joy of a Skinner blend!

To meet this need we began the International Retreat in 2009.   It was so well received that plans were immediately initiated to bring it back in 2011.  Only this time in conjunction with the Metal Clay World Conference, where we will be sharing meals, a vendor hall,  crossover exposure and so much more!

The 2011 IPCA  Retreat has been base-priced to be more affordable but offers optional add-ons like Pre-Retreat Classes with world class instructors, and a Post-Retreat banquet, live auction with auctioneers Christy Friesen and Lisa Pavelka, and a bus trip to the Racine Art Museum for a sneak peak of the new Polymer Clay Exhibit.

First-time Retreat attendee Jill Palumbo had this to say about her experience:

"If anyone is still on the fence about coming...please don't be! I was so afraid to attend the retreat in 2009. I was sure everyone would find out I really 'wasn't good enough to be there', since I was so new to claying and had no real training in art of any kind. I'm so happy I didn't let my fears get the best of me. When I left I was on top of the world, with new ideas and wonderful new friends. All the clayers were supportive, helpful and most of all fun. I felt totally welcome and had the best experience ever."

Meeting the needs of its members at all levels of experience is a critical mission of the IPCA. Click on these links for more information about the Retreat and the Metal Clay Conference.

For the latest details of the Retreat events and to hear what members are saying, visit our Retreat page on Facebook. We hope you'll join us in July for these exciting events!

Karen Woods
IPCA Retreat Committee
IPCA Board Member, 2008-11

See more about the Retreat in the Polymergence May 2011 Special Edition