A retreat series that brings together artists and environmentalists to share ideas, let their minds wander, and build the future we need.

The North Coast Project retreats provide lodging in a beautiful natural landscape where environmentalists and artists have space to use however they choose. We hold retreats in Northern California, coastal Oregon, and upstate New York.

Meals are provided. Free time and space is supported. Conversation encouraged.

We know that by putting the right people in the right conditions, we will be incubating the world we want, a world that holds art as a core value and knows that environmentalism should underpin everything we do. 

By fostering an environment that supports creative thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration, The North Coast Project hopes to support the sort of innovative work necessary to build the future we need.

  • Thank you for the beautiful, and necessary respite—for time to reflect, rest, restore, and refocus. And congrats to you for launching this incredible and compassionate endeavor for all activists, advocates, artists, humans to continue their work creating a better and more sustainable future. Can not wait to come back!

    Yana Garcia, California Secretary for Environmental Protection

  • I saw so many tiny faraway birds, had so many stirring conversations with the amazing folks here, and was able to power through this essay at last. I'm so excited to see the project grow and expand and I'm deeply moved by the generosity of your vision.

    Sabrina Imbler, author of How Far the Light Reaches

  • Thank you for the gifts of time, space, and nourishment. The North Coast Project is a special oasis.

    Avery Trufelman, host of Articles of Interest

  • What an incredible experience! Thank you so much for introducing me to the practice of radical hospitality. It has been such a revelation and I hope to carry it forward in my own life. Thank you for the space (a room of one's own), time, access to the natural world and the introduction to a group of truly inspiring people. I will cherish this memory forever!

    Nancy Matsumoto, James Beard Award-winning author

  • It was a great experience and I truly felt cared for. I think of the 48 hours as a gift. The meals were awesome and the planning and care that went towards making us feel at ease was so appreciated. I noticed all the small details. I often think my pottery or art is not important enough when compared to folks who are actively addressing climate change. But the other participants were absolutely lovely and it was nice to be with others that do different things and see/hear about their approach. I came away with more grace and positivity to myself, my work and how I spend my time.

    Julie Cloutier, artist

  • Thank you SO MUCH for the extraordinary hosting and space you created for reflection, inspiration, and creation. I’m so grateful to be with the redwoods and write a first draft of a piece that’s been in my head for too long! I’m so excited for your vision to come to life and look forward to supporting however I can.

    Serena Bian, writer and Special Advisor to the Surgeon General of the United States

  • What a gift this weekend was. I don't know that I've ever seen radical hospitality in practice—I felt so cared for. I wish I could express how radical it was for me to not have to think about what to make for dinner! I just keep thinking time and space that's all anyone needs, time and space. I am so grateful to be in community with you.

    Christie George, writer

FAQs

  • This is a space for artists and environmentalists (and we define those terms very broadly). If you would benefit from a retreat, please consider applying.

  • Days are free to use your time however you like, we ask that you come together for dinners. We also offer optional programming: art classes, hikes, short film screenings.

  • Starting with drinks and dinner on the first day, we provide meals and snacks/refreshments through lunch on the final day.

  • All meals, snacks, refreshments, linens, and towels will be provided. You will have your own room. Please bring personal toiletries, clothing, and whatever you need to do your best work.

  • NCP retreats bring together a diverse group of artists and environmentalists across disciplines. You can expect there will be between 5-8 people at each retreat.

  • There is no cost to apply or attend. We ask that you make your own way to the retreat.

Contact us: hello@northcoastproject.com