Art Experiences
All human beings are inherently creative.
I derive great joy from offering space for people to explore freely. I have witnessed, over and over, how meaningful this experience can be for others and in my own art practice.
Making art offers us a way to express our thoughts and emotions, discover something about ourselves, and convey experiences that may be difficult to put into words. It can also be just plain fun: playing with color, exploring texture, making marks on a page, trying out new media, and experiencing the delight of bringing something into being that never existed before.
I encourage students to let go of expectations about what their art should look like or whether they are “doing it right,” and to trust their intuition, emotions, and the direction the process takes. There is no intended outcome to strive for and no single way to experience the process of making art. It might feel joyful, surprising, uncomfortable, easeful, exciting, or inspiring.
I have three guidelines that guide my own art making and the spaces I aspire to offer for others:
There is no right or wrong way to make art.
Art making is an act of courage.
Everyone is an artist.
My intention is to support you in setting aside expectations, following your curiosity, and getting to know the creativity that lives within you.
No previous art experience is needed. You don't need to consider yourself an artist. You only need a willingness to explore.
Offerings
Time and space to explore your own creativity.
Individual sessions offer an opportunity to slow down, turn your attention inward, and explore what emerges through the process of making art. With time and space to follow your own interests, you can experiment with materials, express what is present for you, and discover something unexpected along the way.
We close with time to reflect on the experience, if you wish, and notice what you would like to carry forward.
Available in-person in Portland, Oregon, or on zoom.
Making art alongside others, each following your own path.
Small group experiences offer an opportunity to explore creativity in the company of others. We begin together with a grounding practice before moving into individual art making. Each person is free to follow their own interests and work in their own way, without pressure to produce something specific or share more than they wish.
We come together at the end for reflection and a closing practice. These gatherings offer space for creativity, curiosity, and connection while honoring each person's unique experience.
Available in-person in Portland, Oregon, or on zoom.
A creative experience shaped around your group.
I also offer customized art gatherings for small groups who would like to come together around a shared interest, theme, or intention. We can talk about what your group is hoping to explore and shape an experience that feels appropriate for the occasion.
A gathering might offer space for reflection, connection, curiosity, or simply the pleasure of making art together. As with my other offerings, we begin with a grounding practice, make time for open-ended art exploration, and close with reflection and meditation.
Customized gatherings can be arranged for in-person groups in Portland, Oregon, or on zoom.
In-Person and Virtual Classes
Art on the Brain is a creative and caring space that meets in-person in Portland, Oregon and virtually from 3:30 - 6:00pm PST / 6:30 - 9:00pm EST on Thursdays. At Art on the Brain members of the brain injury community come together with Portland State University students to do art; support one another in self-exploration and discovery; and learn about themselves and others through the process of art making.
Participants have the opportunity to explore different media for visual self-expression, including but not limited to drawing, painting, and collage. Art invitations are provided at each session for participants if needed; however, Art on the Brain encourages and trusts participants to follow their creative urges whether on their own or in collaboration with other participants.
To learn more about Art on the Brain, please visit Brain Injury Connections Northwest.
This is a lighthearted and gentle drawing class on Zoom each Wednesday from 3:30 - 5:30 pm PST / 6:30 - 8:30 pm EST.
Drawing is for everyone! Would you like to learn how to represent the world around you on paper? If you have a voice in your head telling you that you can't draw, this class is for you. We will view the work of a different artists each week for inspiration and explore different approaches to drawing (e.g., contour, continuous line, and gesture) in addition to mark-making and shading. As well, we’ll explore elements of design and composition. Classes begin with a check in about your creative life and warm-up exercises, followed by the opportunity to create finished drawings that will delight you.
To sign up for Drawing for the Joy of it, please visit Art Makes Us.
I’d Love to Hear from You!
Please send me an email if you have any questions about my offerings — yoga therapy and/or classes and art experiences — or if you would like to schedule a complimentary 20-minute exploratory phone call to learn more about yoga therapy and expressive arts.
I am also available to facilitate professional development trainings and organizational wellness retreats. I would be delighted to learn more about your organization and professional development aspirations.