An artistic retreat

Southern Living, Oct 2003 by Latham, Tanner C

Quartz Mountain Resort beckons art lovers this month.

This red granite hill rests in the middle of the southwestern Oklahoma plains like a rose-colored stone dropped from a rock hunter's pocket. An offshoot of the Wichita Mountains, Quartz Mountain once attracted American Indian tribes who, believing the area to be sacred, held meetings here. Quartz Mountain Resort's newly renovated facilities continue to draw retreat seekers, especially this month when master artists and students participate in a series of workshops at the Oklahoma Fall Arts Institutes.

Quite a Classroom

Why would artists journey to such a remote area? "For one, this is an exotic location," says Nance Diamond, president of the Oklahoma Arts Institute. Artists teach four-day workshops throughout October in subjects ranging from writing to painting to ballroom dancing. "But many come to teach because someone helped them get to where they are, and now they want to give back," says Nance. Former instructors include painter Fritz Scholder, Pulitzer Prizewinning author N. Scott Momaday, and actress Jane Alexander.

A Collection of Their Own

You'll understand how much the artists have literally given back as soon as you walk in the resort's lobby. Massive pine logs and illuminated cathedral windows are the backdrop for a suite of eight murals painted by Mike Larsen. Four depict the history of the Quartz Mountain territory, and the others reflect the Oklahoma Arts Institute's presence here. These are the centerpieces of a collection of more than 300 pieces of artwork, many of which are on display throughout the resort-all created by instructors and students of the institute. You'll liken a walk on the grounds to a wonderful museum tour. "We feel it's important that visitors here see the artists' work in real life, not just in books," says Nance.

Skip Art Class, and Stay Anyway

You may have no inclination to join an acting or photography workshop, and that's all right. This month is still one of the best times to visit Quartz Mountain as the summer crowds (and rates) have dropped, leaving only cool autumn breezes. While you'll feel secluded, the 120room lodge offers all the comfort and amenities you would find in an urban hotel.

Once you've settled in, slip on your hiking gear and follow one of the six trails, ranging from 200 yards to a half-mile and winding up and around the mountain. Our favorite was the Sunset Loop because it takes you to the top, allowing you to see what Indian tribes saw so many years ago-that Quartz Mountain is indeed a sacred place.

TANNER C. LATHAM

Quartz Mountain Resort: Rural Route 1, Box 37, Lone Wolf, OK 73655; toll free 1-877-999-5567 or www.quartzmountainresort.com. Rates: $69-$89 weekdays, $89$109 weekends. Fall Arts Institutes: Weekend workshops are held at the resort October 2 through 26; (405) 319-9019 or www.okartinst.org. Cost: $525 includes workshops, accommodations, and meals.

WORKSHOPS IN THE WICHITAS

* Photography, Printmaking, and Sculpture: October 2-5

* Writing and Choral Music: October 9-12

* Ballroom Dancing and Theater: October 16-19

* Visual Arts: October 23-26