Process Over Product: The Studio of the Self
Looking for ways to ground yourself in the present and express emotions that you find difficult to articulate through words alone? Are you curious about how art may help you relieve stress, reduce anxiety, provide new solutions to old problems, and help you (re)connect with your body? Come experience therapeutic arts and learn how it can promote your intuitive creativity and stimulate personal reflection. Through a series of 10 workshops, the objective of this course is not about WHAT to create…it’s about letting go, getting curious, and exploring HOW the process and your art makes you feel. Integrating art making with mindful reflection, Certified Therapeutic Arts Practitioner Brandon Liesen will guide you through weekly art prompts to gently engage your creativity and curiosity. He will aim to cultivate a safe and compassionate space where you will feel respected, supported, and heard. No art experience is necessary…all that is required is your open heart and mind! Since this is a closed course, the participants we start with will act as a ‘group cohort’ for the duration of the course. This is a brand-new course offered at KSOA!
What to expect: Each workshop will consist of a group check-in (agreements review/warm-up activity), prompted or self-directed art-making (contemplative quiet time for creating), group discussion (verbal processing), and closing action. Brandon will guide the process and may offer specific ideas. Sometimes we will work on a group activity but the focus will be mainly on individual art-making. Brandon may also ask general questions to help move the group into reflection. Participants can choose to share and/or talk about their artwork, process, thoughts, and emotions or may choose to keep it to themselves. Sharing will be encouraged but not required. Brandon will endeavor to maintain a trauma-aware space with an emphasis on confidentiality and respect. Note: Participation in this course does not lead to certification as a Therapeutic Arts Practitioner. This group is not a suitable replacement for professional therapy. Brandon holds a Therapeutic Arts Practitioner Certification from the Canadian International Institute of Art Therapy (CiiAT) and is not a licensed mental health professional.
Wednesdays, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
First Class: Wednesday, September 25, 2024
Last Class: Wednesday, December 11, 2024
Teaching Artist: Brandon Liesen
Skill Level: All Levels
Location: Gallery | 647 Princess Street, Unit 101, Kingston, ON, K7L 1E5
Required age: Over 16 years old on the day of the activity
Notes: Materials will be provided, however, participants will be encouraged to bring in their own/favourite art supplies, "found objects," and materials for collage making
More information: If you'd like to pay by cash or debit, please contact our main office during operating hours to arrange.
