Group Art Sessions
What art does for the artist, can it do it for the Planet? I raised this question at PHAM 2021. Since then I have been exploring practical ways to answer it. I am an artist/entrepreneur based in Los Angeles, exploring the links between environmental health and mental health. Back in 2017, I experienced total burnout from work, activism, and climate anxiety. I instinctively began to draw. This evolved into my art practice and a self-therapy method. Today I share the basic ingredients of my Morphic Units Method over group art sessions, I hold a safe space on zoom to talk about it.
Groups previously assembled at
“Hypnotic.”
“It was helpful at a time when I was having strong feelings about writing, fear of staying with myself.”
“It’s settled. No need to voice words.”
“Bonding to do it with others.”
Questions you might have:
Who are your group art sessions for?
This exercise may be appealing to those who feel overwhelmed by the weight of activism, caregivers, social workers, and parents who are particularly sensitive to social and environmental issues the world is facing today. Therapists who might like to introduce a new tool to their clients experiencing climate anxiety are also welcome.
What do I need to participate in?
1 hour.
A space you are comfortable in. No need to stay in front of the screen the whole time.
Some blank pages. The back of your utility bill or the blank side of your shopping bag would do just fine.
A fine-tip pen or pencil.
Are the sessions in-person?
Right now, all sessions are on zoom. I take advantage of the zoom space to allow everyone to participate from their comfort zone. I may hold in-person sessions in the future.
Is this art therapy?
This is not a formal art therapy method, and I am not a licensed therapist. I am sharing a method developed as an artist for self-healing. I have been practicing it since 2017. It took me out of some dark moments.
Is this an art class?
Not particularly. This is a way to spend an hour entering an artful mindset. There is a specific method and a small set of rules to follow. The rest is free flow.
Is there a show and tell?
Absolutely no pressure to show what you draw. But if you feel like it, you are very welcome. An open dialogue at the end of each session is also optional to participate in.
Is there hypnosis involved?
No. You may or may not enter a state of flow during the practice.
How much do the sessions cost?
For now, pay what you will. You may contribute via Venmo or Paypal.
Request to book a group art session.
For your community, neighborhood, non-profit organization, event, festival, employees, or students.
Minimum 3, maximum 12 participants per session.