Practice that is Embodied, Experiential and Intergenerational

We often think of contemplative practice as meditation, quiet, a way to be apart from the world for a bit for silence.
All this is true.
And...
This quiet of contemplative practice can help us to be more present in all aspects of our daily lives, our relationships and our work in the world. 
In addition to traditional silent prayer and meditation, there are activities that offer a shared contemplative practice and presence that is embodied, experiential and intergenerational.

Sharing Spaces and Practices that are Embodied, Experiential and Intergenerational

The paper cut at the top of this newsletter is inspired by a quote from Lady Bird Johnson. In researching this piece, I was inspired to learn about her work for gardening and public green spaces as well as her advocacy for early childhood and head start programs. I enjoyed including people of all ages sharing natural spaces in this paper cut. For me, hiking and time in nature is one of the spaces that most naturally invites quiet, attention and wonder. It is something that I remember from my childhood and enjoy sharing with my children as well.

Shared creative practice is one of my favorite ways to share contemplative space with groups and especially across generations. I love the way quiet will descend on a room as people engage with materials, exploring, creating patterns and telling stories. 

Read on for a bit about my children's books which I have just posted on-line as a resource for sharing creative practice as a family. I invite you to think of ways you might share a table for materials and making as well as one for feasting this Thanksgiving. The beautiful thing about art is that it can be shared across the miles to express gratitude even to those we are unable to gather with in person.

COLLETTE and Oops Paint Turn 7

Many readers first joined this newsletter through Art at the Center, a Studio Lab for Children and families in Alexandria, Virginia.

You may have attended classes or followed us from afar via our blog and website. The opportunities to connect with parents and teachers, and to mentor art therapy interns were some of the greatest joys of my time hosting the studio.

My books, COLLETTE A Collage Adventure and Oops Paint were inspired by a desire to share our approach to materials and creativity beyond the programs offered in-person at Art at the Center. 

It's hard to believe it's been 7 years since the publication of Oops Paint and COLLETTE. I am SO grateful for all who have read my books and shared your creations with me. I am hopeful that new generations of young artists will continue to be inspired by these stories. 

I have recently updated the Art at the Center website; it now includes access to a full digital version of each of my books.

If you would like a hard copy, please visit my ETSY site to purchase a signed copy. For every book purchased in November and December, I will donate one as well.

I've made some updates to my ETSY site, adding ceramic labyrinths and my Sky Break series of collages with photo transfers. I will be continuing to add more artwork in the coming weeks. Purchases over $35 receive free shipping.

Thank you

for reading and being a part of creative community through this newsletter. With a grateful heart, Kathryn