What a delight it was to host an art opening event at Glenside's Dovetail CoLAB. Honestly, I almost didn’t do it. The reasons not to? Schlepping paintings, the nerves (what if no one comes?), and promotion (who has time for that?).
But the reasons to far outweighed the rest—good vibes, a moment of pause and celebration, sharing the joy of creativity, meeting people who love art, nature, and meditation. A powerful reminder that while I often paint in solitude, art truly touches people.
I had so much fun during the event-and I'm so grateful for the many folks who came out--from nearest and dearest friends to people who I met for the first time. Thank you! I was so caught up in the joy-- I forgot to even talk about my paintings or remember that one of the goals is selling artwork. LOL. I was too caught up in the fun of an experience I offered--designed to share my creative process. I had folks do a simple (sort of!) activity of pushing a rock around on paper with a sharpie. Sounds easy enough.
One participant told me:
“It was surprisingly centering and meditative. Your gentle facilitation invited us to explore new ways of thinking—about both thinking and not thinking, and also about inviting creativity. What an opening experience!”
“It was such an interesting experience. To observe how the rock and pen moved while noticing all the different opinions and judgements my monkey mind was having on how I must be doing it wrong etc…. I then was completely delighted doing it- it’s actually quite hilarious to witness the commentary in my head. Excellent activity!”
“The opening activity was incredibly calming—a deep, centering breath that brought me out of the busy push and pull of my day and into the sacred spaciousness of the moment”
“Who would have thought that mindfully pushing a little rock around with a marker on textured watercolor paper could be so absorbing? As the tricky little stone wiggles and pulls you into its path it is at once calming and confronting—after all you can’t control the way the stone will react! What a wonderful way to unwind and crawl into the right side of your brain. A fabulous “take home” meditation to practice!”
That reflection sums up why I keep showing up for this work. Painting continues to be restorative for me—I start to twitch if I go too many days without it! But just as much, I’m finding joy, magic, and flow in facilitating experiences that open people to creativity and connection.
What’s next?
This fall, I’m offering Paint Big in my home studio (Philadelphia area). Message me if you’d like details!
I’d love to bring a meaningful creative experience to your workplace, congregation, or group of friends. If that sparks your curiosity, reach out and let’s explore what’s possible.
In the studio I've been working away on new garden inspired pieces--swoon!
With gratitude and joy,
Bronwen