Unlocking the Transformative Power of Art

I just returned from a 10 day excursion on the east coast.  This journey gifted me with two invaluable realizations that I believe many of us can relate to.

First of all, I confronted a fear that seemed to have taken root during the pandemic. I'm sure I'm not alone in this experience, but being in crowds became a daunting prospect for me. Over the past year or so, I unintentionally developed an aversion to bustling spaces. However, during my travels, which involved navigating airports, cars, hotels, and even participating in a large workshop at the Omega Institute, in New York's Hudson Valley, as well as strolling through the vibrant streets of New York City, something remarkable happened. I rediscovered a sense of freedom I have not experienced in a long time.

Second of all, I realized that throughout my life, I've often grappled with what many call FOMO, or the fear of missing out. It's a common sensation that can nag at us, making us question whether we're truly living life to the fullest. Yet, during my time away, I came to a profound realization—I am not missing out on anything! My life is rich and abundant even in the confines of a five mile radius, spending time in my studio and home.

While I thoroughly enjoyed my journey, returning home brought about a newfound appreciation for the place I call my sanctuary. Sometimes you have to leave home to appreciate home.

During my time at the Omega Institute, I had the privilege of immersing myself in a workshop led by an instructor I deeply admire—Stewart Cubley. Stewart is a true pioneer of "process painting," where the experience of painting is more important than the outcome. With over four decades of experience, he has been a leader in the field guiding individuals through transformative artistic experiences. Having previously taken a workshop with him fifteen years ago at Brittenbush Hot Springs in Oregon, it was an honor to once again be in his presence. To learn more about Stewart Cubley and his remarkable contributions to the art world, I encourage you to visit his Website.

For those unfamiliar with the concept of Process Painting, let me elaborate. It’s a way to unleash the expectations of self in creating a final “product” and dive on down into the depths of the soul. With just tempera paints and inexpensive paper, we are encouraged not to paint over anything and simply follow the threads of inspiration as they emerge.

As primarily an abstract painter myself, this approach meant exploring where a particular image or shape might lead me if I remained committed to its development. Surprisingly, this lead me to narrative storylines that consisted of representational imagery, no matter how unconventional or awkward they initially seemed.

Of course, the path of artistic exploration is not without its moments of uncertainty and self-judgment, particularly when one's work that you know will be seen by the public. However, this private oasis of visual language can be viewed as a form of art therapy, although I believe all art serves as therapy in one way or another. By embracing a non-linear creative process—letting go of the notion that A must lead to B, which subsequently leads to C—we open ourselves to a vertical axis of transcendence, where the source can flow in. Non-judgment is something I recommend to everybody who paints. It’s like having a date with your inner self and just enjoying the ride.

In many ways, my commitment to mentoring and my involvement in the Mantecon Community Membership revolves around this very principle—teaching and reminding others, as well as myself, how to enter meditative states of creativity.

The reminder to embrace the meditative states of creativity, to surrender to the flow without imposing rigid expectations, is a lesson worth revisiting time and time again.

So, my dear readers, I invite you to join me on this journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration. Let us shed the fear of missing out and release the constraints of conventional thinking. Together, we can tap into the boundless realm of creativity, where the interconnectedness of body, nature, and spirit converge.

Share your thoughts in the comments below! Let us embark on this transformative voyage together. And, don't forget to scroll to the bottom for exciting updates and additions within the Studio.

With love and creativity,

Lauren