This two day experiential workshop will explore the issues and gifts that come with the transitions of entering the second half of life and becoming an elder. An intentional spontaneous approach to the arts will be introduced in the context of exploring the eight gates as laid out by Angeles Arriens in her book on The Second half of Life: opening the eight gates of wisdom. 

Registration is limited to 8 participants to provide an intimate experience.

Art supplies are provided and coffee and tea are included.

No art experience is needed and reading Arriens book is also not required.

Testimonies from past workshops

“It was a most valuable and rewarding two days.  I need more experiences like this that provide reflection time and creativity and sharing aging wisdom.”

“This was a unique way to approach what aging can mean. This allowed me to explore and discover the concept of aging in a way that left me with excitement for the future. Opened my mind to possibilities to live a whole enriched life. One of the most valuable workshops I have attended. The facilitator established an atmosphere of trust and sharing, encouraged in-depth sharing and acceptance.”

“I valued the space given for silence and inner work. The sharing sessions were enriching. Cynthia did an excellent job facilitating individual work. The most valuable part for me was an opportunity for creative expression. Reflecting on the images in the power point fed my imagination. I love the images of the eight different gates as ways of looking at aspects and challenges of aging.”

“Very profound and just what I needed.”

Topics Covered

• overview of the eight gates of initiation as markers on the path
  
• introduction to art making: Layers, collage, clay, paints, natural materials
  
• reflecting on art making with poetry and creative writing
  
• time for sharing

Presenter Bio

Cynthia Brown, B.ED, AT, DKATI, is a professional art therapist and educator co-creating relationships in the fields of art, expressive therapies and education. She has facilitated workshops and sessions with groups and individuals using art therapy in various settings and is a professional member of the Canadian Art Therapy Association. Also, she is certified in Therapeutic Body Mapping and is a Touch Drawing facilitator.  She also teaches kindergarten, working with several Independent arts and nature based schools. Cynthia has taught English in Japan and has travelled extensively throughout the world.  She lives with her husband in Cochrane, Alberta.