Exploration and Self-Discovery through Art (a four part series)

Join instructor Odessa Lussier for  Exploration and Self-Discovery through Art. 

These sessions are designed for adults and mature young people and will run from 11:00am to 1:30pm on Saturdays in February, 2025 (Feb. 1, Feb. 8, Feb. 15, Feb. 22)

Sign up for all four sessions for $125.

The instructor will bring all art materials necessary for the art-making sessions, but participants are encouraged to bring a sketchbook/journal to each session.

Each session includes discussion, personal or group art-making, and reflection time.

Session #1:

In the “Real and Play” session, participants create two collages with different intentions. Afterward, the group reflects on how each approach felt, exploring the contrast between striving for perfection and the freedom of play, often discovering that the “play” and ‘spontaneity” collage turns out unexpectedly well.

Session #2:

In the ‘Grow a Garden of Positivity’ session participants will work with written words, colours and drawing techniques. If participants are feeling overwhelmed they can write down a ‘list of  the things to do’ that have been on their minds. Alternatively, they can just write what’s on their minds. Once everything is on paper, participants will circle the positive/meaningful words that are written in it. Then using oil pastels, they will create a garden where the positive/meaningful circled words are the only words that are showing. All other words are blurred in the background of the garden. Participants will have a chance to reflect on what positive and meaningful words they want to focus on growing in their minds.

Session#3:

In the “Altered Magazine Photo” session, participants are given a magazine photo and encouraged to transform it using a variety of materials, such as paint markers, paint, or collage techniques. The goal is to creatively alter the image, either by enhancing or changing its meaning, and to explore the process of reimagining an existing image. Afterward, the group can share their altered photos and discuss the different interpretations and techniques used in the transformation.

Session #4:

The “Reverse Colouring” session involves painting with watercolours on a blank piece of paper, then allowing it time to dry. Once dry, participants will contemplate the shapes they see, similar to finding objects in the clouds, and draw on the painted paper with a pen to reveal something intuitive. This activity nurtures creativity by allowing artists to explore new, unplanned possibilities and embrace the beauty of imperfections. It encourages a more relaxed, imaginative approach to art-making.