Mindful art

We naturally integrate mindfulness practices when we immerse ourselves in a creative endeavor.

Mindfulness (Creativity) is being awake, moment to moment. Mindfulness (Creativity) is observing, listening, and feeling, and then wondering about what you’ve experienced. Mindfulness (Creativity) is experimenting and being present with the process. Mindfulness (Creativity) is noticing novelty and potential, being curious, and following that curiosity. Mindfulness (Creativity) is a practice; it is playful and never-ending.

My current, favorite way to practice mindfulness-based art is to get out in nature with a sketchbook or canvas, see where the shadows from nature fall on the blank canvas, and paint or draw the shadows. I love the experience of a composition being gifted by nature, of not having to think about what to paint, and of having to jump right in before the shadows move!

Mindful shadow art is easy and approachable. No skills or experience are necessary! The art-making simply involves outlining or filling in the shadows (or the negative spaces between the shadows) that fall on your paper or canvas. The practice pleasantly invites you to be in the moment and surrender to what is there in front of you, right now.

Mindful shadow art gets you outside. While it can be done inside as well (hello, shadow puppets!), it is so good for our mental and physical health to be outside in the fresh air.

As an educator and facilitator, I offer Mindful Shadow Art workshops for groups. Whether you’re a community group, non-profit, school, family, or corporation, this could be the workshop you and your people need right now! Mindful Shadow Art may be combined with yoga and or meditation offerings. Please contact me for details.

To the Calming + Focusing Beauty of Nature,
Sara