I am seeking an assistant for the retreat, who will assist me in several roles and art projects. The Assistant will help support participants creative exploration and help foster a supportive and inspiring environment.

Grief work takes an emotional toll and so nourishing food is plays an important role in supporting participants. Our cook will fulfil her role and bring her aspect of community to the group through her offering of planning, preparing and sharing of each meal.

It is essential that the assistant be able to manage their own time efficiently so to have prepared the materials for the relevant art projects.

Art Materials

-      Oversee the set up and organisation of art spaces and help keep them tidy throughout the retreat

-      Provide artistic guidance and instruction to participants

Retreat Art Projects

Mask Making - Be able to help participants with basic mask decoration. While I will provide instruction on how to make the following, the assistant help and encourage participants:

  • Clay Doll Making. Help assist particpants in use of air dry clay. I will provide full instructions in making the doll

  • Grief doll making - Using natural materials. I will provide full instructions

  • Weaving Grief / weaving project – Be able to warp several circular embroidery type looms

Other roles include:

  • Helping ensure the health and safety of participants while out on walks

  • Setting up the room for relevant activities - art projects or clearing the room for the Keening Circle or Trance Dance

  • Being a point of contact for any issues that arise - and then liase with myself

  • Any other aspects the retreat organiser may require assistance with

Work Trade Position

The assistant position is offered on a work trade basis and offers:

  • Seven nights accommodation at the Glebe Barn on the Isle of Eigg

  • Dinner on arrival day, breakfast, lunch and dinner each day and breakfast on our departing day

  • Participation in retreat activities (while managing one’s own time and preperation for activities)


What isn’t included in the Cook position:

  •  All travel expenses getting to Eigg

  •  Optional taxi rides on Eigg

  •  Any meals or drinks other than those listed above

  •  Medical treatment

How to Apply

To apply for this position, create a Word document that outlines how your experience matches the points mentioned above. Include any other relevant information and your contact details.

Use the email subject line "A Keening Circle Retreat: Assistant Application" and send it to jude@pathoftheancestralmothers.com. The application deadline is 15th January 2025 and all applicants will be informed by the 31st January 2025.