MAKING THE DREAM BECOME REALITY
Have you ever had a dream? My friend Elisabeth Larson (1941-2021) and I, both teachers in arts appreciation and arts expressions programming for Museum One, were successful in bringing the arts into our Washington, D.C. community, including schools, senior facilities and continuing educational centers. However, we always had a vision of establishing Creating for Life Centers (see: our July 13 blog for the proposal). Although we were not able to fulfill our goal, perhaps you, your friends and members of your community can find a way to enhance and expand your experience of each day through the spirituality of creativity so important today.
Here are the first two steps, focusing on visual art and creative movement, to begin your journey of self-discovery.
A PAINTING CAN CHANGE A LIFE FOREVER
Woman with a Parasol–Madame Monet and Her Son, 1875, oil on canvas, Collection of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Mellon, National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
This program has two main components: Art Appreciation and Art Expressions
Art Appreciation
The Artist’s Hour
Weekly sessions that focus on artists and periods of art, from Impressionism to our American Heritage to international cultures. Besides learning about works of art, participants see and experience the world with new eyes. They are encouraged to share ideas, thoughts, and emotions with each other about the works of art.
Results: provide intellectual and mental stimulation; promote social interaction; catalyst for touching emotions; and revitalization of imagination.
Art Expressions
In the Artist’s Studio
Weekly workshops offer an opportunity for participants to create their own works of art using different media while learning a variety of techniques. Besides experiencing the process of doing art, group members discover the the power of bringing their inner feelings and emotions to the surface.
Results: enjoy a sense of accomplishment; develop a sensitivity to the environment, self-empowerment and healing.
DANCING CAN FREE THE BODY AND SOUL
Edgar Degas, Four Dancers, c. 1899, oil on canvas, Chester Dale Collection, National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
This program has two main components: Dance Appreciation and Creative Movement
Dance Appreciation
Epochs of Man in Dance
Weekly sessions tracing the history of dance through the ages, from the beat of the drum to ethnic expressions, classical ballet and new dance forms. Besides discovering the story of dance, participants become aware that movement is the source and condition of everyday life. Better understanding develops as dance expressions of other cultures are identified.
Results: Develop a better understanding of other cultures; learn to understand the classical forms of dance; enjoy performances which include dance.
Creative Movement
The Body in Motion
Weekly dance and exercise sessions provide participants the opportunity to be physically active again. By becoming aware of body mechanics, group members will learn how to communicate and create through movements. Martial art forms, such as Shibashi, offer healing movements to rejuvenate the body and spirit.
Results: Reinvigorate and reenergize the body; provide purpose for living a better life; integrate body, mind and spirit.
COMING NEXT; MUSIC, THE COMMUNICATOR OF THE SOUL & THE POETRY OF LIVING
In the public domain, courtesy of the National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
The National Gallery of Art does not endorse or approve use of the above image or any of the material on this website. Nor has the National Gallery of Art participated in any projects utilizing the said image.
