Class Overview

Class begins by grounding ourselves through meditation and sharing. Following that, we explore an aspect of mindfulness and well-being. Participants are invited to connect experientially with what interests them in the teachings through art making and reflective writing.

By following the steps below, we settle into the present moment and creatively connect with what is arising in our bodies, hearts and minds using intuition to guide mark making.

Intention Setting—Intention setting is a way to ground our art making time by connecting with how we feel. Our intention arises from what we would like to experience during art making time and can be about anything including healing, gratitude, self-care, problem solving, acceptance or relationships. Through intention setting, we create art guided by our deepest wishes and values and reflect upon what is important to us. 

Art Making—We create art in a judgement and comment-free zone, using simple drawing, painting, collage or 3-D materials. We give ourselves freedom to play and explore with curiosity and allow the image to unfold without planning or editing. We create by noticing what brings us energy and feels good. Relaxing into each moment, we connect with the natural flow of life happening inside us and around us. 

Witness Writing—We shift from art making into reflective writing, being present to whatever words arise as we sit with our images. This might be stories, associations or memories, as well as emotions and bodily sensations. We write without editing, letting go of trying to achieve a particular outcome. Our images are full of interesting information when we look at them with curiosity and welcome what they have to say.

Reading—In community, you may read as much or as little of your writing as you choose. Participants hold a space of deep listening and refrain from giving feedback about each others art and writing.