May 13-17, 2026
Cultivating Ease & Flow: 5 Days of Book-Making & Movement
with Kathy Steinsberger & Diann Fuller
Instructors Kathy and Diann.
There are 30 meanings listed in the Oxford English Dictionary for the word “flow”. In this workshop we will explore the word flow in as many forms as possible. By floating acrylic paints onto a thickened medium; Kathy will guide us in creating a collection of exquisite marbled papers with each paper offering it’s own unique style, whimsy and expression.
Then, we’ll incorporate those papers, along with archival drawing paper, into our own artist-sketch-writing journals which we’ll bind using a form of the ancient Coptic binding. For those who are up for extra embellishment with needle and thread, we’ll add an embroidered Ethiopian headband to the top and bottom of our book covers. Throughout the workshop we’ll share our stories, songs, poems, favorite quotes and inspirations…enjoying the process along the way.
During all of this activity at the artist tables, we’ll explore more definitions of flow in the beauty and healing serenity of Gray Bear’s natural beauty. As Diann leads us in yoga stretching and meditation, we will also take time to hike the moss-covered trails, or sit by a waterfall, relax in the wood-fired sauna or the stone hot tub, experience the offerings of the healing bodywork therapists on site, and finally gather among our friends around the table for the delicious and nourishing meals lovingly prepared by the Gray Bear kitchen. And when we leave Gray Bear on Sunday, we hope to carry that flow with us to our next destination.
About the instructors
Kathy was a ceramic artist for over 20 years and a book artist for 22. In 2001 she began to combine
book arts with her clay, and in books she found her passion. In addition to teaching at Gray Bear,
she has taught book arts classes at Pullen Arts Center; Beaufort Arts Center; Cary Arts Center; the
NCSU School of Design; and Penland School of Crafts. Her books and pottery have been in
numerous shows and exhibitions throughout the southeast. Examples of her pottery have been
included in the books Handbuilt Tableware II and 500 Pitchers. In 2012 she acquired her own
letterpress and set up her private letterpress studio, Orange Lantern Press. In 2015 she changed its
name to PaperButtons Press. She has written and printed many limited-edition artist’s books, many
of which are depicted on her blog at paperbuttons.blogspot.com
Read more about Kathy...
Diann Fuller is the co-director of Gray Bear Lodge and High Forest Institute. She began her yoga practice in 1985. Diann combines her love of the Earth and her gentle teaching style with harmony and balance.
Who should attend
This weekend is open for all to attend. No prior experience is needed in any way. Individuals, friends or couples: all are welcome.
Registration/Retreat Cost
Workshop discounted at $945 if paid in full by April 1st. Limited to ten participants. Supplies included. *All prices include tuition, all materials for journal making, daily yoga class, meals, shared lodging and full use of facilities. A limited number of private cabins may be available for upgrade; please inquire if interested. All balances are due upon registration. MC/Visa, Venmo, PayPal, Check accepted. Gray Bear Lodge, PO Box 682 Hohenwald, TN 38462. Late registration (after April 1st) increases to $995. Confirmation letter and additional information (including directions to Gray Bear) will be sent. Payment plan option offered if needed; please inquire. A $300 non-refundable deposit may be mailed to secure your space.
Arrival Departure Schedule
We'll begin with guests arriving between 1:30 and 3:30 on Wednesday. Making of Pastepaper begins as early as 2:00 and continues until dinner which is served at 6:00pm. (Earlier arrival is recommended. ) . Sunday finishes with brunch and checkout is at 11:00.
(*) Gray Bear is a two hour drive from the airport, so please plan arrival time/ departure time with this in mind.
What to Pack
Gray Bear is home to 400 acres of rolling hills, thick forest, natural springs, and even a waterfall. You can experience the wonders of nature while sitting in a hand-built wood fire sauna; hear the silence of nature's symphony lying on a hammock while curled under a blanket; and revel in clear air and water while using shower outdoors.
With all of this nature we have some suggestions to consider when packing:
- Working flashlight ...it gets dark with only the light of the stars to guide you!
- A bathing suit ... good for the hot tub, sauna, and Watsu massage pool
- Water bottle ...Gray Bear does not use disposable cups. Purified water is available in the Main House and the Yoga Room
- A bath robe/sarong
- House slippers or socks to wear indoors ...no shoes inside please
- Comfortable walking shoes/sandals for an inspired nature hike
- Warm clothing ...mornings & evenings can be cool
- Comfortable clothes for exercising/yoga
Please do not bring any drugs, alcohol, or pets. Gray Bear is a non-smoking, pet-free and alcohol-free facility.
Questions: call 615-782-0469