Testimonials

Voices of Orein Artists

130+ artists. 16 States. 8 Countries of origin. Many disciplines.

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From the moment I stepped out of my vehicle, I understood this would be like no other art or writer community I've experienced. The grass was clover and singing with bees. A flock of sheep moved slowly on the horizon. I don't know that I've ever left. I carry this place, the people, and the moments in my heart. And what an unexpected gift.

—Susan A., Writer

I did not know what my soul needed until I experienced it at Orein Arts. The rhythms of work and prayer. The camaraderie amongst the residents. The long walks. The stillness. The wide open spaces to create, discuss, rest, and listen. You will remember who you are, what you are good at, and why you have to keep going.

—Justin C., Musician

My play started writing itself.

—Tia S., Performer

My phone stayed in the glove compartment of my car for five full days... my work felt far more focused, but I also found myself reading again and engaging with my cohorts and thinking more clearly and deeply. I came back with more than a week's worth of work. I came back with clarity.

—Jeremy S., Composer

Though I'm not religious it was a true privilege to share space, meals, and time with the monks. It was beautiful, in every sense of the word. I don't like thinking about a universe where I did not go to Orein. I left feeling confident. In myself and my own journey.

—Sam G., Painter

These were my people. These were the conversations I wanted to be part of; these were the kindnesses that were a joy to exchange; these were the others seeking beauty and seeking whatever it is that beauty awakens in your soul. We knew this about each other without having to say so.

—Leslie R., Artist

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The time here gave my joy back.

—Carl G., Painter

This residency reminded me of the gift of living and creating within community, and how tied art-making is to the contemplative life. I met artists of varying disciplines who all had a unique way of seeing and paying attention to the world, which re-invigorated my own desire to bear witness to what is beautiful.

—Emma B., Actor

Just knowing that you are among monks who are devoting their lives to keeping the channel open to God — to the powers we cannot perceive — relieves part of your mind so that you can devote more to your art.

—John S., Writer

I was raised Christian but had very little knowledge of Catholicism and even less of monastery life. The monks and Orein leadership were very helpful and gracious as I learned. I never once felt out of place or unwelcome.

—Corrie A., Photographer

Artists on the lawn in front of Our Lady Queen of Peace Chapel

God kneaded my heart during this week. We come to Orein Arts as we are. Impossible to pretend.

—Josephine D., Painter

I came away with the feeling that my work — that all good work — is a form of prayer. I left determined to carry that feeling with me into my regular artistic practice.

—Lindsey W., Writer

The week I spent at Mount Saviour Monastery is truthfully one of the best weeks I've had in decades. I almost want to keep this lovely residency a secret so that there will be space for me to return.

—Lori A., Artist

My gratitude to Mt. Saviour for all the gifts during the residency that were not, in fact, writing.

—Marek K., Writer

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