Tips on Art Therapy

Welcome to the transformative world of art therapy at Raven Heart Creative Space

Engaging in artistic expression can be a powerful tool for self-discovery, healing, and personal growth.

Here are some tips to enhance your art therapy experience:

1. Embrace the Process, Not Just the Product

Focus on the act of creating rather than striving for a perfect end result.

Allow your intuition to guide your artistic journey.

2. Create a Safe and Comfortable Space

Choose a quiet and comfortable environment where you can immerse yourself in the creative process.

Consider using soft lighting, calming colors, and soothing music to enhance the atmosphere

3. Use Art as a Form of Self-Expression

Let your art be a reflection of your emotions, thoughts, and experiences.

Don’t worry about conventional artistic techniques; this is about expressing yourself authentically

4. Experiment with Different Mediums

Try various art materials such as paints, pencils, markers, or collage to discover what resonates with you.

Experimenting with different mediums can bring different aspects of your creativity to the forefront.

5. Be Mindful and Present

Practice mindfulness while creating, focusing on the sensations, colors, and textures of your art.

Use your art as a meditative practice, allowing it to bring you into the present moment.

6. Explore Symbols and Metaphors

Consider the symbolism of elements in your artwork.

What do certain colors, shapes, or images represent to you? Explore the metaphors within your creation

7. Let Go of Judgment

Release any self-criticism or judgment about your artistic abilities.

Art therapy is a personal journey; there is no right or wrong way to create.

8. Reflect on Your Artwork

After creating, take time to reflect on your artwork.

Consider what emotions or insights it may reveal and how it contributes to your healing process.

9. Engage in Guided Art Activities

Participate in our guided art classes or workshops to explore specific themes and techniques.

Guided activities provide structure while still allowing for personal expression.

10. Seek Support and Share

Connect with the community at Raven Heart to share your art and experiences.

Attend open art classes or join specific workshops to engage with others on a similar journey.

Remember, art therapy is a personal and evolving practice.

Allow it to be a source of joy, reflection, and self-discovery on your unique path to healing.

If you have any questions or would like additional guidance, feel free to reach out to our supportive community.

Kintsugi repair your own ceramics

In this ongoing class, participants are asked to bring their own special pieces, embracing the profound metaphor of Kintsugi – the Japanese art of fixing broken pottery with precious materials such as gold. We will be following Kintsugi Australia’s Jun Moorooka’s modern Kintsugi techniques.

This class centres on the therapeutic process of repair, prioritising the journey over the final outcome. By investing time and care into mending your unique project, you not only craft something new but also emphasise the inherent beauty in the cracks and fractures. This experience is particularly poignant for individuals navigating grief, offering a symbolic and tangible representation of finding new beauty in the mended.

Encouraging open discussion and camaraderie, our ongoing Kintsugi class provides a supportive space for personal reflection and growth. While dialogue is welcomed, it is not mandatory, allowing participants to engage with the transformative process at their own pace. Join us in embracing the art of repair and uncovering the profound beauty that arises from acknowledging and revitalizing what was once broken.

There is a pre-requisite to this class. We have partnered with Jun and Hitomi from Kintsugi Australia, who are kindly providing us with the knowledge, skills and techniques to be able to continue and share their legacy. 

In order to attend you must have completed the ‘modern kintsugi class’ with Kintsugi Australia. They have a full time Kintsugi Dojo in Sydney and classes in Melbourne and Brisbane. They will also be providing this modern Kintsugi Class at our Raven Heart Creative Space periodically.

Please call Ian for more details.

CLICK HERE TO  EXPRESS INTEREST IN THIS CLASS

This image is sourced from Kintsugi Australia.

Through our established partnership, Jun and Hitomi will intermittently conduct Kintsugi workshops based on demand.

Ian, Amanda, and Lauryn, students of Kintsugi Australia, will also host workshops in between.

CLICK HERE TO  EXPRESS INTEREST IN THIS CLASS

Portrait Commissions available

Soul Portraits

The process is unhurried, allowing time for healing through thoughtful observation and conversation about fine details of the subjects face.

Natural discussion about your loved one is welcome.

This class spans multiple sessions (as many as it takes and caters for all skill level. Each student will progress at their own pace, there is no pressure to ‘keep up’.

The aim is to ‘see’ your loved one and learn by observing your subject deeply, rather than focussing on the final portrait.

By the end, you will have a very special, loving portrait of your subject that captures the essence of your loved one.

Students will need some basic supplies: oil paints and brushes. A detailed list will be provided upon registration.

This class will be subsidised and offered at a low cost, $20 per class, embodying our commitment to supporting grievers on their journey.

We are actively seeking sponsorship or Patreons to ensure the accessibility of this healing class.If you are a potential sponsor please get in touch.

CLICK HERE TO  EXPRESS INTEREST IN THIS CLASS