Joan: I teach art as a component of all my writing classes and workshops. Even in my academic classes at Hollins. More important, I use the mixed-media projects in my own work so it’s not just an exercise to get writers think out of the box. At my last two retreats, some participants worked the entire weekend, even using up their “free afternoon” to work on their projects. That made me feel great!

Joan, It’s a straight shot down I-95. Or down 301, if you prefer. Take 95 to Ashland (north of Richmond), take 54 east toward Hanover Court House (5 miles). That puts you on 301. It’s 5 miles from there. Be sure and make it a day trip. You’ll be lost in there for hours. They are open every day but Wednesday.

There aren’t that many places where you can buy huge amounts of ephemera, but all antique shops and junkin’ places usually have somebody who has quite a bit. Look for places that sell old postcards–generally they’ll have other types of ephemera.

Close to you! Go to Ashland and turn left on Rt. 54, five miles to Hanover Court House, another five miles south on 301 and you’re there.