Feeding the Muse
Process and Agenda
Feeding the Muse is based in the powerful CODE Model™. This cutting edge way of thinking about life, our bodies and the experiences we have in life will shape and frame all of the conversations and painting experiences we have during Feeding the Muse*.
For our first 2 days together we'll deal with the basics: materials, using paints, watercolor vs. acrylics, etc. You'll then experience a series of light, guided meditations used to help you discover all the 'rules' you have for yourself about your creativity, your artistic (and other) abilities, and what it takes to be successful. You'll paint a picture after each of these guided visualizations, working largely with color and form to capture what you've discovered about the information carried in your body. You'll create art pieces that amaze you, whether you are a trained artist or an absolute beginner.
You can choose to work with either water color or acrylic media and you can alternate as much as you like.
After we've spent 2 days 'cleaning the pipes' so to speak and becoming reacquainted with our bodies and our ability to 'see', we'll then move into 3 days of painting what you are called to paint with focus on specific issues that are surfacing for you. We have no set agenda or process for these days but anticipate that the following topics are likely to surface:
- Painting as a process of personal discovery and growth
- Painting your feelings and experiences
- Color theory and color mixing
- Underpainting – what and why
- Perspective – inner and outer
- Painting as 'impressions' of reality
You will work either in our central meeting room or you are free to paint en pleine aire. The Feeding the Muse process involves no critique and little emphasis on technique. Rather it is an opportunity to explore and discover your edges as a human being and creative soul. Playfulness and delight are brought to the fore whenever possible. You will begin to delight in your 'mistakes' as much as your triumphs!
Retreat Facilitator: Gwen McCauley came to art very late in life and delights in her new-found ability to create representations of life and experience. She has studied painting with Jerry Spicer, Eva Grajewski and Andrew Fay. Gwen has helped many people who believe they don't have an artistic bone in their body to make astounding discoveries about their abilities. She has also helped trained artists press the boundaries of their abilities and re-discover the joy of painting for pure expression. Her painting workshops are free from jargon and criticism. Instead they are filled with laughter, delight, discovery and a willingness to explore our edges.
*What is The Muse? A term for that experience of creative inspiration, insight or flash of brilliance that precedes all great moments in our lives, whether they are artistic or not. Retreats are a great way to feed, nourish and experience anew that source that guides and directs our lives.
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