n this episode, podcast host CJMiller welcomes fellow artist, teacher, and art retreat facilitator Joy Fahey. Joy runs a vibrant YouTube channel offering online art classes and organizes yearly art retreats in Malaga, Spain.

CJ and Joy delve into the artistic and emotional benefits of art retreats, sharing their insights and experiences. CJ discusses how asemic drawing and music can inspire a painting, while Joy explains her process of Zen painting as a starting point for creativity. Joy emphasizes the importance of engaging the whole body, especially the arm, in the painting process.

Both artists describe art retreats as magical places where participants share their knowledge and learn from each other. Joy recounts a traumatic experience that led her to become a more conscious artist, and how this journey has influenced her approach to teaching and creating art. They discuss the transformative impact of art on individuals dealing with trauma, and how painting offers a new perspective on their challenges.

They highlight how everyone on the retreat shares their experiences and gets to know each other intimately. Each participant's artwork is unique, reflecting their personal journey.

Both artists describe the magical aspects of painting, describing it as rewarding, cathartic, and confidence-boosting.

Artist Joy Fahey was born in Manchester, UK, and now lives near Malaga, Spain. She studied Fine Art at Manchester College of Art and has travelled to many countries and spent long periods of time in the USA, South Africa, Hong Kong, Australia, and New Zealand.

She has had many exhibitions both nationally and internationally, including the Gaudi Galleria, Madrid, and CAC, Contemporary Art Picasso Museum, Mijas Pueblo. In July 2017, she was also represented by the Galleria Rimon, Marbella.

Joy lives in the historic and cultural village of Torrox in southern Spain, where she has her studio and teaches workshops and online courses. She also holds Creative Painting and Wellness Retreats twice a year in the beautiful Little Alhambra just outside Malaga.

For more information and to watch a video about Joy's upcoming September Art & Wellness Retreat in Malaga, Spain visit: https://www.joyfaheyclasses.com/creative-painting-and-wellness-retreat-special

For more information on CJ's upcoming Spiritual Artist Retreat in Santa Fe, New Mexico, May 4-8 visit https://www.spiritualartisttoday.com/services-9