Heart + Art Gathering Miami, Fl Jan 2026

Heart + Art Gathering Miami, Fl

Jan 29th -Feb 1st,  2026

SPOTS HAVE OPENED! Contact Alex

Welcome to Heart & Art Gathering in Miami. Robyn came to Portugal last June and it was an instant connection. She is not only an inspiring artist but is a profound and deep human soul. We are sisters from another mother as Robyn says, so a collaboration between us two seemed natural. We are excited to invite you to a 4 days workshop in Miami where we will honor the ones we carry in our hearts, those we love deeply, those we miss, those who shaped us.

In the 4 day workshop with Robyn and I, we will be creating with gelli prints, eco dye, organic assemblages, resin papers, carbon paper + handmade stitching…

Together we will create a meaningful handmade artist book, an artistic keepsake infused with memory, emotion and love. This is a space to slow down, reflect and express your heart/art through color, texture and story. Whether you come with a specific person in mind or simply the feeling of deep love, this book will become a sacred container for what matters most.

Join us, dive in… Jan 29th -Feb 1st,  2026. Accommodations are not included- (we will recommend nearby options)
With love and excitement,
Robyn, Alex & Marina


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Alex Castro Ferreira (Portugal)
An artist known for her poetic approach to memory and transformation. Alex will guide you in creating soulful “memory books” — intimate artworks that weave together personal stories, textures, and emotions. INSTAGRAM

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Robyn McClendon (United States)
Our beloved queen of Gelli printing. Robyn’s workshops combine creative play with deep inner work — using color, texture, and intuition to open new pathways for self-expression and healing. INSTAGRAM

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Though very different in style, both Alex and Robyn share the same radiant qualities: exceptional talent, generosity in teaching, and magnetic presence. Together, they’ll offer you a rare creative experience where technique meets transformation.

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    Workshop Details

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    8 immersive art sessions (4 with each artist)

    beautiful private house in Miami with a lush garden and swimming pool. Please note: Accommodations are not provided. (we will recommend nearby options) The AirBNB is for the Workshop Sessions Only. 

    Time to work after hours in the studio

    nurturing community of like-minded women artists

    A chance to reconnect with yourself and your muse

    This is not just a workshop  - It’s a gathering of mixed media artists coming together to connect,grow,be inspired, laugh, dance and return home with a SAUDADE as we say in Portuguese, a longing for more.

    Reserve through Deposit Now

    Heart + Art Gathering

    Miami, Fl in January 29th - February 1st, 2026

    Date: January 29 – February 1, 2026 in Miami, Fl

    Event price: $1,150 per student 
    Deposit: $400 per person

    Please note: Accommodations are not provided. (we will recommend nearby options) The AirBNB is for the Workshop Sessions Only. 

    *This workshop is not refundable* You may transfer this workshop to another person if you can't attend. If there is a waitlist we will connect you with the next person on the list. Once transferred or sold, your reserved spot will be removed. If we cancel this workshop you will be refunded.

    Registration is OPEN- Contact me by clicking one of the buttons on this page to book your spot. You can also reach me for any questions by using the same buttons.

    Reserve through Desposit Now

    Share this Workshop!

    Heart + Art Gathering Miami, Fl Jan 2026

    What people are saying

    Some gathered voices on taking one of Alex's courses or workshops!

    Dear Alex For the second time only in my life, I have truly felt HOME in my heart while in a new place away from my own family. There is no Portugal for me without you. With all my love and light.

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    D Artist

    Im so delighted and inspired by your lessons and techniques. Love this class and the big concept of LOST + FOUND TREASURES. You are a most excellent teacher.

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    Susan Artist

    I have learned so much with this course (and will never look at a rusty item quite the same) A big thank you to you Alex for stretching my imagination and teach me the art of mixed media. I have thoroughly enjoyed it.

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    Andrea Artist

    Im not new with Art Journals and know a lot of technics but your course is really an enrichment to me and for my work. New for me is the resin paper and dying with black beans. Your course is awesome. Also the assemblage ideas are so great.Thanks Alex so much for this wonderful and generous course for us.

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    Petra Artist

    My four treasures in honor of my beloved ones. Alexs workshop opened up a whole new world for me and gave me a chance to deal with my grief. THANK YOU dear Alex. From the bottom of my heart.

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    Anne Artist

    I think your workshop is amazing. Your theme of using memorabilia from our family members is brilliant.

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    Cecile Artist

    This is the first project that had me completely focused on the process. I get to escape. What I love about it is the richness and meaning behind the content.Im completely absorbed in the organic feel of the materials. LOVE IT! Ill be looking forward to your next class.

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    Stephanie Artist

    "After participating in Alex's wonderful online classes, I had the pleasure of meeting Alex in person at a retreat she organized in Portugal with a guest teacher artist.  We were welcomed by Alex and her partner Marina with open arms to a gorgeous setting.  All our needs were taken care of!  The group bonded beautifully as we were offered a nice blend of artistic activities, touristic adventures and gastronomic delights.  Alex and Marina connect with people quickly and naturally.  Participating in their retreat is a treat you do not want to miss! 

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    Darquise Artist

    Not only very well organized but a super warm atmosphere thanks to Alex and Marina. Loved the hotel and location in Sintra; loved the food, loved the wine, loved the sightseeing and the bit of spare time that allowed me to explore a bit more on my own. I think the dosage of workshop and sightseeing was just perfect. I was extremely sensitive to Alex and Marina's enthusiasm, energy and generosity.

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    Nelly Artist

    It truly was wonderful! Thank you, Alex, for bringing us all together and sharing your lovely smile and seemingly boundless energy. Thank you, too, for Marina. Her choices and plans made the entire experience even more unique and memorable.

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    Mary Artist

    Thank you from the bottom of my heart for one of my most favorite retreats! You kept surprising us with treats and activities, you lavished on us and you and Marina just made us all feel so special and loved. Thank you doesn't seem like enough. I miss you already!

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    Joy Artist

    When we were in Morocco I felt that you had the incredible ability to make each of us in the group feel special. It’s a rare gift you possess. Thank you for sharing it.

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    C.Sullivan Artist
    Words cannot describe this experience of a lifetime. Alex and Marina were fabulous hosts. Incredibly generous with their time. Lots of laugh, inspiration, sightseeing, food,wine and visit to flea market. 
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    C.Randall Artist
    Jane and I made it home to Denver with no problems except missing all of you beautiful ladies. It was great fun to see several old friends and meet even more new ones. The workshop was wonderful - I love, love, love making books with Alex and Robyn. And it was so good to get to see Marina. Kisses to all of you.
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    Sandy Artist

    The retreat in Miami more than met my expectations! GREAT experience and great people. It filled my soul! Learned so much from both Alex and Robyn and I am enjoying putting those lessons into my work in my studio at home. Much love…

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    Sherry Artist

    I learned a tremendous amount of new skills at the workshop and appreciated the generosity of you, Robin and Alex.  It was my first time working with Alex and found her to be a wonderful and compassionate teacher - with a great sense of humor!  I have followed Robyn on the internet for several years and still I learned several new ways to make art from her. I loved the book structure that she taught,.  I look forward to finishing my book with pictures and mementoes of my grandparents so that I can pass it on to my daughter who never knew them.  I like to make art that has an impact and I can't begin to tell you how meaningful it will be to share it with my children.

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    Claire Artist
    RESERVE NOW
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    Orly Avineri is coming to PORTO - with a 4 days workshop called SWEET & TENDER LITTLE THINGS | An Alternative Book Making Experience. Marina and I feel both grateful and blessed as Orly had decided to give workshops only in the States and after her successful retreat in Lisbon last march, Orly decided to come back to Portugal. Telling you that we are excited is an understatement as Orly is one of the most inspiring and talented artist in our mixed media world, she is one of those free and generous mind that you want to meet once in your life and now we are lucky to call her a friend.

    You are invited for a NINE DAYS ART + TRAVEL RETREAT WITH ORLY AVINERI. We have curated a very special week and hope that you will go home with “Saudades”, a Portuguese word meaning a longing to come back soon. Our journey will start with a welcome drink and dinner so we get to know each others then on Saturday we will discovering Invicta as Porto is called and will continue with us creating and exploring SWEET & TENDER LITTLE THINGS | An Alternative Book Making Experience for 4 days with ORLY.


    Our Retreat will be held in Menina Colina Guesthouse, a house that is over 170 years old next to the city centre, old town and the galleries around rua Miguel Bombarda. Our workshop will be held in the historical music room of the Menina Colina Guesthouse. This ancient House was completely renovated with exquisite taste in 2017.  All the historical beauty of the murals, gardens, and the architecture will surround us. Limited availability of 8 SINGLE ROOMS and 4 DOUBLE ROOMS (have a roomate) where you can fully relax and appreciate our creative week. Please note that this hotel does not have an elevator.

    You will fall in love with Porto and his people called "the tripeiros" as they are authentic generous and welcoming.

    Our inner child will be excited to attend a custard Pastel de nata workshop, going to a fisherman village called Afurada, taking a Douro river trip on the Rabelo famous boats, listening to traditional fado, wandering in the old city with his unique charm and good vibes, visiting the best Wine Port cellar… Our goal is for you to experience the best of Porto, to bring home your very personal and unique creation made with Orly and to nourish your body soul and mind.

    This is Your retreat where you will have time both for yourself and to gather, connect, share laugh with other creatives souls. You Deserve The Best!

    Welcome to my Father António Rui Fonseca e Castro Ferreira hometown!

    warm hugs, alex