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Art at Studio Luce
Inside Studio Luce

ARTIST IN
RESIDENCE

visit El Paredon
WRITING RETREAT WITH DR. KATE GALE
CASA ZALA | RED HEN PRESS | STUDIO LUCE
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From Kate Gale, Director of Red Hen Press, author of, Under a Neon Sun.

 

Join me for a workshop where you can refine your craft and receive valuable feedback in a supportive community. Whether you’re working on a novel, poetry, or memoir, this retreat provides the perfect backdrop to unlock your imagination.

The retreat offers cozy accommodations in Casa Zala and Studio Luce, surrounded by a tropical joy, providing a peaceful environment for reflection and writing. Spend your afternoons exploring the mangrove swamps, where the bird watching in the waterways invite you to connect with nature as you float through an intricate network of roots and canals.

Experience the magic of El Paredón—a place where the beauty of nature and the power of words converge to transform your writing journey.

We will start each morning with an optional yoga class. Then we will all do a writing warmup for 20 minutes, followed by a morning writing workshop interspersed with writing time. In the afternoon, you can read, write, swim in the ocean, or go kayaking in the mangrove swamps.

El Paredón is a magical place. The sunsets are breathtaking. The fresh fish, vegetables, and fruit are delicious. You are visiting the place where sunshine comes from.

Find out more from Kate

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You will receive daily breakfast and lunch, housekeeping, wifi, transportation from the airport to Casa Zala, yoga classes, and writing workshop.

Cost for a single room for one week: $2,150

Cost for sharing a room: $1,450
 

To sign up, or for more info, email: drkategale@gmail.com

THE RESIDENCY

What’s the creative space like?
 

Studio Luce offers a beautiful, light-filled environment designed to inspire creativity. It features three en-suite bedrooms and a spacious, open-plan studio area perfect for art, writing, or workshops. There are also outdoor workspaces and an indoor writing desk for quieter moments.

Casa Zala includes an upstairs creative workspace ideal for group sessions and workshops. Throughout the house, you’ll find plenty of cozy writing nooks and desks that make it easy to find your own creative corner
 

Do I need to cook my own meals?
 

At Casa Zala, breakfast is provided daily. El Paredón has a few small shops and markets within walking distance, though options are limited as it’s a rural beach town. We can connect you with local sources such as fresh fish deliveries, or arrange for a private chef to cook for you during your stay.

There are also plenty of great restaurants nearby offering a range of cuisines—Guatemalan, Mexican, Thai, Italian, and more.
 

Can I drink the water?
 

Tap water in Guatemala is not safe to drink, but both Studio Luce and Casa Zala are equipped with eco-filters, ensuring you have access to clean, safe drinking water throughout your stay.
 

Can I surf while I’m there?
 

Absolutely! El Paredón is famous for its world-class waves, especially from November to April. Guests are encouraged to surf during their stay—we can help arrange board rentals, or you’re welcome to bring your own.
 

Anything else I should know?
 

There’s a Super24 convenience store nearby where you can withdraw cash or use a card. While most places in the village prefer cash, some restaurants do accept cards.

Mosquitoes can be active during the rainy season and around sunset, so bring bug spray. We also recommend checking your vaccinations before traveling.

If you’d like a local SIM card, we can help set you up—TIGO is the best carrier in the area. Both houses have reliable WiFi, so you’ll stay connected throughout your stay.

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THE RESIDENCY

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