I spent a beautiful day in Lincoln as the July Artist of the Arboretum. The campus is beautiful, the furnishings in the lobby of the administration building were gorgeous, audiences were engaged, curious and open. I saw many familiar faces and made some new friends. It was a very moving day. The resilience and will to overcome is so strong. I was able to witness for the 1st time how my work can move people, how it speaks. I set up my work and people began moving through the room. Before I even began the presentation, many people were crying and came up to speak to me. A number thanked me for giving a voice to their thoughts and for reinforcing to them that they are free to be enough. I gave and received more hugs today than ever and I loved each and every one. I learned how to handle Q & A, to never assume that your audience - even those with mental health concerns - will understand terms like trauma and PTSD, I answered questions about technique, about my philosophy and life experiences and what art has done for me. I learned about real strength when I looked into vulnerable eyes and faces. Every person took something different that they could hold in their hearts from the art and the presentation. I saw people that society would rather stigmatize as human beings and I want to do more work with behavioral health. I could never have imagined 4 years ago when I discovered art journaling, the beautiful connections and places that it would carry me. I am grateful for each and every opportunity to love others and to empower others to love themselves. #fosterhumanity DOUBLE CLICK to view full size.
Posted on: Thu, 03 Jul 2014 02:56:27 +0000
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