Scribehaven 2023

February 2024
Lake Barkley, KY

Details coming soon

Scribehaven

Scribehaven was created as an opportunity for NCG members to come together for an extended weekend of sharing art, relaxation, and fostering lasting friendships. We have a great time focusing on art and our sense of community.

The retreat is open to all NCG members. Scribehaven is an opportunity to experiment, work on unfinished projects, and fellowship with other kindred spirits who love lettering as much as you do.

Scribehaven History

Vicki Brandt had a dream of having a Guild retreat somewhere away from Nashville — a time for Guild members to gather and spend the entire weekend immersed in the various aspects of calligraphy and calligraphic-related arts. Vicki researched various state parks and other venues and settled upon Lake Barkley State Park in Kentucky.

The first retreat came to fruition in February 2009, with fourteen Guild members in attendance. This is a four-day gathering of NCG members typically held the last weekend of February at Lake Barkley State Resort Park in Cadiz, Kentucky. Some members take advantage of the full, four days at the park, while others arrive at their leisure. All skill levels are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Short programs and demonstrations (one in the morning and one in the afternoon) are usually scheduled on Saturday so that everyone may attend. Each year, Vicki plans demonstrations and mini-workshops led by Guild members on everything from watercolor flowers to flourishing to Zentangle to background papers and everything imaginable. Most years the retreat also features a Trash and Treasures table where members can bring things that they no longer use or want to be given to someone else who can use the items.

For those who have never attended the retreat or been to Lake Barkley, it is indeed a treat. Each lodge room is a lake-view room, the conference rooms are spacious, and the food is wonderful. 

Our annual retreat is now well into its second decade. This event, which began as an experiment to promote fellowship among calligraphers, has gained a loyal following with Guild members. It is a time devoted solely to art, relaxation, experimentation, collaboration and being with other kindred spirits who love lettering. Scribehaven is truly a retreat in every sense of the word. Ultimately, the main attraction of Scribehaven is its serene location combined with the opportunity to unplug, learn, share, mentor and make new friends.