Workshops are generally 1 1/2 to 3 hours and consist of:
Meditation and breathing exercise
Introduction of theme
Art experiential related to theme
Interactive group activities
Personal and group response and processing
MANDALA MAKING and ENERGY WORK In this dynamic workshop explore the relationship between the ancient symbol of the circle and natural manifestations of energy in the world. Such as Relationships between colors, harmony and the Hindu chakra system.
DOLL and PUPPET MAKING Dolls and puppets are natural containers for our own thoughts hopes and dreams. It can be useful for a mental health practitioner who works with children - and others - to know how to make a simple doll. In these workshops we explore creating dolls and puppets from basic materials - socks, felt, and yarn.
BOOK MAKING/ALTERED BOOKS One of my most popular workshops is the "tried and true" Mini Accordian Books. In it we learn several methods for making a simple miniature books using paper folding and various materials from recycled to hand made papers. These are perfect as gifts or for writing yourself affirmations. In another workshop we do Altered Books - recycling old books into new art forms.
FIBERS and WEAVING Weaving as an art form is as old as human kind and has its own form of storytelling. In my Weaving as Narrative Workshops we explore the links between "text" and "textile" and explore your own narrative thread. We also learn simple methods for creating your own loom. Other fiber works can including felting - both needle and wet methods, knitting, crocheting and basket making. We explore the therapeutic value of these rhythmic and nurturing arts
ART JOURNALING Story telling has been a source of collective history for millennia. It is a natural way of communicating to ourselves and to others what we truly believe and value. Art journaling is the practice of story telling in a journal with both written words and visual images. This mode of working employs both left and right sides of the brain and encourages greater integration of experience and enhanced meaning. We work with various themes - Transitions, Travel, Myths etc...