Dissolutions: The Alchemical Language of Water, A Writing Retreat with Lidia and Ravyn on the Oregon Coast

It could be argued that without change, there is no story. The ancient alchemists believed that true transformation occurs when we take the prima materia of our lives and drop it into the alembic of our imagination. This weekend, we will introduce our writing material to different alchemical processes that may utterly change its appearance or form. Burn it to ashes. Dissolve. Separate. Conjoin. Ferment. Distill. Coagulate. Perhaps our stories will shine golden in the end. In this intimate and highly participatory retreat, we will explore our personal and collective transformations through conversation, meditation, ritual, divination, and of course, writing portals. This August, we will focus on water and the alchemical operation of Dissolution.

Number of participants: 13 maximum (we expect it to fill quickly so get your deposit in!) 
Where:  Private residence in Depoe Bay, OR, 5 minute walk to Lincoln Beach and a short drive to beach access via car, Location available after we receive your $250 deposit. We will be on Siletz land, and also Siuslaw and Alsea. 
When:  Aug 21-23, 2026, Friday 7-9p, Sat and Sun 10am -3:30p, 
Lodging:  Choose your own accommodations. There are many options nearby in the 97341 zip code area and a little further away. We advise not to wait for the last minute!

Cost:  base price is $850, $700-1000 sliding scale, As Bayo Akomolafe says, we trust your discernment of your current financial situation and how you fit in the global economic context. If you pay at the top of the scale, you can support partial scholarships.

Pricing includes all writing sessions and a literary reading at the end, two lunches, beverages

$250 deposit on Ticket Tailor reserves your spot (*nonrefundable unless it's an emergency), the balance is due via Venmo or Zelle on August 1st

Contact:  Ravyn at gerriravynstanfield@gmail.com for more information or questions