FAQ
What is a Practitioners’ Gathering? Why should I come?
A Practitioners’ Gathering is a time for practitioners to come together to share their personal journeys, how and where they have been practicing, and to reflect on the call for our practice now and how it might develop. While the Gathering is called by Art of Hosting practitioners, others working or interested in participatory practice are warmly welcome.
What can I expect?
At this point we have a simple design for our time at Štatenberg. We aim to begin by checking in together and then harvest and reflect on our practice sensing into our stories. Then we move to Open Space where anyone can offer a topic or activity. We plan a break in nature or visits in the surrounding area mid-week. While there is not enough bandwidth onsite to offer virtual participation, it is our intention to harvest our experience for the wider community.
What is the history of AoH Gatherings?
In 2012 Mary Alice Arthur called a Learning Village. At that point, it was about 10 years since the beginning of Art of Hosting at Castle Borl. Since the castle was no longer fit as a venue, the Learning Village took place at Štatenberg. Another gathering was held there in 2013, and we had a further gathering in 2016 at Debeli Rtič on the coast.
These gatherings sprouted other Practitioner meetings around the world. And so on…
In 2022 it was 10 years since our 2012 event and Slovenian practitioners Marjeta Novak and Petra Založnik listened to the suggestions of their fellow local facilitators and invited a team to begin co-creating that year’s event.
Now we are back again.
What is sLOVEnia like?
Visitors to Slovenia rave about the country’s stunning natural beauty, including its snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, underground caves and emerald green rivers. Unsurprisingly, Slovenia is also known for its world-class outdoor activities, such as hiking, climbing, skiing, paragliding, canyoning, kayaking, cycling (and some of the best athletes in the world ?).
Another highlight of Slovenia that visitors often praise is its charming, historic cities – as well as the warmth and hospitality of the Slovenian people.
It is a place where visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in a world of wonder and enchantment.
What more encouragement would we need to say that we LOVE Slovenia? Slovenia even has love as its middle name!
What about language?
The language of our gathering is English. And we’ll be creating a Welcome Guide for you that will give some Slovenian phrases that might be helpful.
Is it okay to bring my children?
This gathering is aimed at practitioners. It will include times of reflection, silence, and interaction with nature. We do not have any childcare or specific program for children.
Scholarships
We hope to be able to provide scholarships for those who want to attend but who are financially challenged. This will depend on having enough registrations to cover our costs. Therefore, notice may be last minute. Please be clear about your needs and also be patient.
Is there any way I can share travel costs with others?
Once you have registered, you will receive the link to the form to sign up for travel-sharing to and from Štatenberg Manor. The form works in a self-organizing way, and it is up to participants to co-organize travel together.