Be Here Now Workshop
Expressive Arts Wellness Retreat
Program Description
Be Here Now is a two-day painting workshop and introduction to the Expressive Arts (EXA). Whether you are a seasoned painter or complete beginner, this workshop will show you the therapeutic nature of the expressive arts and how it offers new ways of being with ourselves and our creativity. EXA is process-oriented with a focus on expression, imagination, and mind-body connection. By using an EXA approach to artmaking, the creative process becomes experimental and open, offering a chance for participants to see their innate creativity as a resource for day-to-day life.
What to Expect
In this workshop you will learn the fundamentals of Expressive Arts. EXA is an intermodal approach to artmaking that incorporates multiple forms of creative expression. The Be Here Now Workshop will focus on painting with the accompaniment of writing, music, movement, stories, nature, and meditation as a part of the process. This is not your average painting workshop. Expect to play, move, experiment, connect and be in community.
No Previous Skills Required.
Materials Needed: Sketch Book, Journal, Writing Materials, Comfortable Paint Clothes, Water Bottle, Lunch or arrangements with CABIN.
Location
The Be Here Now Workshop use Pine Cottage and the Outdoor Shelter as our nesting place for the weekend. There will be space for participants to set up their canvases outdoors and some programming will take place outside with nature.
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Meet Your Guide: Emily Pleasance
Emily is a certified guide through the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy. Currently studying at a private college in Tkaronto, she is training to be an Expressive Arts Therapist. Throughout her life Emily has worked with children and youth in the arts and outdoor recreation. She is currently working at a studio providing inclusive and accessible arts-based programming specialized in diverse neuro & physical disabilities. Founder of the Forest Bathing Club, Emily has guided walks throughout the GTA for a variety of communities. She received a BA in Photography from TMU and a Masters in Communication & Culture from York+TMU focusing on The North and Canadian Art. Emily is passionate about helping Canadians build relationships with land through Forest Therapy and the Expressive Arts.