BRATTLEBORO — The Center for Creative Solutions, a partnership of Marlboro College and Michael Singer Studio, will host its second summer workshop, “The Retreat Farm: Sustainable Solutions,” sponsored by The Windham Foundation and held at the Marlboro College Graduate School from July 21-31.
Vermont is a leader in the local, sustainable agriculture movement. Internationally known artist and designer Michael Singer is at the forefront of the integrated design movement, creating models for successful urban and ecological renewal.
The Center for Creative Solutions demonstrates how designers, planners, and artists can work creatively and collaboratively to address challenging community issues. This summer, all three of these forces come together for a look at the Windham Foundation's vision of a more sustainable campus at their Brattleboro Retreat Farm location.
The Retreat Farm includes 450 acres of agricultural land and historic farmstead buildings, as well as a popular Petting Farm that operates on a seasonal schedule. It also serves as an entry point to the Retreat Trails, a nine-mile network of recreational trails open to the community. The farm is adjacent to the new Grafton Village Cheese facility.
Named ninth among the 100 Best Small Art Towns in America by author John Villani, Brattleboro is the site for this intensive, interdisciplinary workshop. This summer's session will bring together creative thinkers, social innovators, economic and development professionals, architecture, design and planning practitioners, urban enthusiasts, as well as foodies and local agriculture community members to participate in identifying the opportunities for the Retreat Farm.
Recent graduates and current students are welcome to apply. Marlboro College Graduate School will award two graduate credits upon completion of the workshop for those requesting academic recognition. Regardless of training, participants will share a desire to work collaboratively and to work on a real-world challenge.
The Windham Foundation, an operating foundation engaged in philanthropic, charitable, and educational activities, is sponsoring the workshop. Its mission is to promote Vermont's rural communities through its philanthropic and educational programs, along with its subsidiaries whose operations contribute to these endeavors, including The Retreat Farm, Grafton Village Cheese, and The Old Tavern at Grafton inn.
In 2010, the Center for Creative Solutions chose Brattleboro's waterfront area as its project, which is where the Marlboro College Graduate School facility is located. Their work culminated in an interactive “Renewing the Riverfront” exhibit at the Brattleboro Museum and Arts Center, which invited public input into possible uses for the space.
The fee for the workshop is $1,500 and includes room, bedding, continental breakfasts, lunches, and materials. Participants are expected to cover their own dinners. Visit www.ccs.marlboro.edu for more information on the workshop and to apply online.