Hello Creative Friend,

We talk about how wonderful creativity is and how much our creative wisdom can guide us. It is such a positive resource. Today I (Tamara) want to acknowledge that it takes courage to make something that is brand new, that’s never existed in the world before. It takes courage to follow your creative thread, not knowing exactly where it’s going to lead. I think about students and clients and how much  I ask of them when I invite them to pick up materials and make a mark or move their body or make a sound to express what is really intimate and tender inside. It takes courage to heal, and it takes courage to be present to the vulnerability and space where the unknown resides. 

Today feels like a turning point as we move through the month of January and pause to consider all of the new opportunities we are creating for this coming year. I find myself turning inward to give expression to what has been waiting to emerge. I realize that I’m stepping out of what I consciously know into new territory. I feel supported and I am grateful.  I am also aware that I am not sure what will show up and that feels scary sometimes. Someone shared the phrase "do it scared" with me this week. I needed to hear that. It is the definition of courage - doing something, creating something, in the presence of fear. 

Exploring in Open Studio led to this image. 

Its words to me were: 

Step into this place rich in indigo, texture, and depth. Have courage to find your way. 

We know that we ask a lot of clients when we invite them to go inside and make a mark or make a sound, move their body or tell a story.  It’s extremely important to honor their courageous act of creating by offering our full presence and care. In the upcoming course, Creative Presence, we will explore the ways that we can support the courageous act of creating images and engaging with the imagination in one-on-one sessions, acknowledging that we must establish safety in order to be so brave. 

A good place to start is to reflect on how you offer yourself your full presence and care. How do you have the courage to put paint over your drawing or scribble outside the lines or stretch out and wiggle your body or sing your feelings? Can you give yourself a little time this week to courageously open up to what wants to emerge and follow its lead? Can you give yourself permission to not know what will happen, to stretch your limits a little, and try something new?  When you do, we would love to witness your creations. You can share with us in our private Facebook group. 

Also, this is the final week to take 40% off Art as a Healing Practice self-study course! With this purchase you also get $15 off our two brand new mini retreats: 

A Moment to Breathe and Harvesting Gratitude!

Start your year with a deep dive into creativity, reflection, and expressive arts.

See all our upcoming offerings here!

 Each course contains detailed, yet approachable instructions, videos, and meditations facilitated by Kathleen & Tamara. The imagery and guidance from this work can assist you, whether dipping your toes into expressive arts or seeking a deeper connection. 

*All courses come with lifetime access so you can refer back to them at any time!

*No previous art experience is necessary!

Featured Self-Study Course

Art as a Healing Practice