Soul Narration - What Does That Mean?
To me, it is an immaterial essence that actualizes our existence on this planet. That thing that connects us to all that is. It’s where we can access guides and helpers along the way for support.
It actually took me a few decades of experimentation along with the practice of actualizing myself in my own work and mentoring practice before I could fully grasp the concept.
Lauren Mantecon, Between A Rock And a Hard Place, oil on canvas, 60 x 60 , 2023
So what exactly is Soul Narration?
Soul Narration in simple terms means allowing the soul to merge with the Self to tell us a story. The benefit of this practice is to deepen our painting process in a personal way.
The Classic definition of narration is the way a story is told. In the history of art, this has usually been a story that gleams imagery from mythology, history, and everyday life.
But I have witnessed this take place in abstract painting as well. When we begin a painting - whether unplanned representational imagery, abstraction, or a combination of both.
When we begin to understand the personal stories in our paintings, we begin the process of self-empowerment. This encourages both the creative maker and the viewer to go beyond the surface by utilizing potent, practical, and spiritual tools.
I am excited to be offering my first four-day workshop, Soul Narration, entirely devoted to this process. The benefit of this practice is to deepen our intimacy with our painting process in a personal way so we can recognize ourselves in the work.
I would love for you to join me in this transformative workshop that explores the concept of Soul Narration and access the essence that connects us to all that is.
How did it come about?
It began with two things. One, in an offering, called the Alchemy of Mixed Media, where I would demonstrate various unconventional techniques through painting and mixed media. It created space for the stirrings of our internal processes.
I was reaching for what I call the golden thread in order to stay longer in the immersion of my imagination and intuition. A golden thread is a visual metaphor I use to connect myself to all that is in this vast multi-universe, so I don’t forget. I keep a thin piece of this colored thread on my altar. It’s there as a small physical reminder- not unlike an umbilical cord that when mundane tasks and mindless distractions have caused me to lose my way, I can reach again. It’s my magical string into the creative process.
To read more on the golden thread see my blog post: the Golden Thread Weaver of Magic.
I then began slowly developing a practice of mentoring that nurtures the individual with their own voice, even when we gather and work in a group. Especially in a group because we get to witness the power of visual metaphors.
Many years ago I taught in academic settings. This consisted of a variety of foundational art classes that included 2D design, color theory, and painting and drawing. Over time I began to grow unsettled. I wanted to offer something beyond techniques and critiques. I did not know it at the time but I was looking for a way to access my own soul in a direct way. This is extremely powerful using the mediums of paint and collage. If you are interested in this transformational work and want to be a part of the container, check out my Workshops.
Thanks for reading,
