As the year draws to a close, the specter of potential burnout looms, prompting reflections on the unfolding of 2023 and aspirations for the coming year. As you stand on the cusp of the new year, shedding the remnants of what no longer serves you, it becomes imperative to turn inward while also venturing outward— towards a retreat that promises to nourish your mind and soul.
For women who sense that 2023 may have drained their creative wellspring, Sally Ghaly offers the perfect antidote to burnout. The Egyptian-Canadian creative has meticulously curated a series of getaways aptly titled “Out of Office Creative Retreats” designed to culturally and creatively enrich the mind and soul. The most recent retreat, held in September 2023 in Morocco, unfolded as a five-day experience uniting thirteen talented local and international creative women. From glamping in the tranquil Afagay desert to immersing in the vibrant chaos of bustling Marrakech Medina, the retreat seamlessly blended tranquility and vibrancy.
Laura Hafes, a filmmaker who attended Vol.1 of the Out of Office Retreats, perhaps encapsulates the experience best: “Between the vast desert and the bustling city, Out of Office Creative Retreats was a harmonious blend of natural serenity and urban inspiration— a journey of both outer and inner exploration. An unforgettable odyssey of creativity and sisterhood, where we flourished and grew together.”
For those who missed the first rendezvous, Ghaly beckons all women to join the second edition of the forthcoming retreat, set to get underway from Feb. 25 to March 1, 2024. With an added day to the itinerary and a bespoke menu of creative sessions, organizers are diligently crafting a distinctive blend of activities fostering creativity, collaboration, and personal growth. Beyond providing a haven for female creatives, Out of Office Creative Retreats acknowledges the pivotal need for female-centric environments in traditionally male-dominated art spaces.
The upcoming retreat in Morocco seeks to spotlight the talent of North African artists, amplifying the contributions of local creatives and enriching the experience with their unique perspectives. Five local Moroccan creatives— Zineb Achoubie, Rania Malek, Zineb Koutten, Naila Charkaoui, and Oumama Charkaoui— will serve as co-creators.
Commenting on the importance of this retreat, Sally Ghaly says, “When I was at SOLE DXB, one aspect that deeply resonated with me was the realization of our collective need for healing, both individually and regionally. Amidst the ongoing genocide in Palestine, where collective trauma weighs heavily, creating spaces of joy becomes an act of resistance against those who wish to suppress our existence. The retreat became a source of healing for many women, fostering connections and a newfound sisterhood. Despite the initial unfamiliarity among participants, the retreat swiftly evolved into a safe haven, showcasing the transformative power of creativity. In the face of natural disasters and ongoing conflicts, the retreat provided solace and a sense of purpose. It serves as a reminder that even in tumultuous times, creating spaces for healing, community, and creativity remains crucial. While the world may seem to be on fire, these spaces become a refuge, reconnecting individuals with themselves, their communities, and the earth.”
If you find yourself in need of a sign to reignite your creative spirits, consider this your sign.
Those looking to immerse themselves in this creative retreat can visit www.outofofficecreativeretreats.com or their Instagram for more information on how you can make it happen.
