Internationally-renowned art therapist, author and speaker Lucia Capacchione will lead an intensive day of journaling, creativity and expression tomorrow, at Santa Monica’s YWCA.
The event celebrates the 35th edition of Cappachinone’s “The Creative Journal,” that has become a classic in the fields of art therapy, memoir and creative writing, art journaling, and creativity development.
“Capacchione not only helps to bring out the best, but helps to discover that there is a best that is worth bringing out,” said Norman Cousins, author of “Anataomy of an Illness.”
Using more than 50 prompts and vibrantly illustrated examples, in her book Capacchione guides readers through drawing and writing exercises to release feelings, explore dreams, and solve problems creatively.
Tomorrow’s workshop promises to be an expressive journey to the “creative self.” “Through journal drawing and writing, we release feelings, explore dreams and solve problems creatively,” organizers explained.
Included are tools for stress relief through emotional expression, healing the past, exploring relationships, body-inventorying for health, and clarifying life goals. You can experience “ground-breaking” techniques for using your non-dominant hand for brain balancing, finding innate wisdom and developing creative potential in all areas of life.
“Capacchione’s time-tested inner portraits and dialogues with parts of the self are powerful tools for healing relationships with self and others,” organizers said.
The workshop, in a safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere is aimed at learning to manage the critic within, who inflicts self-blame and doubt and shuts down our creativity and our life force.
We illuminate the unconscious through dream work and processes for “having a dream on paper.” Through doodles, scribbles, spontaneous art and writing, we discover vast inner resources, organizers said.
No special talent or training in the arts is required. Only an open mind and heart. Sharing is strictly voluntary; journals are held sacred and confidential. Bring a journal: blank book with unlined paper, (8 1/2 X 11 in.) and set of felt pens (12 colors or more).
Topics include emotional expression, healing the past, exploring relationships, self-inventory, health, life goals, and more.
“The Creative Journal” has become a mainstay text for college courses in psychology, art therapy, and creative writing. It has proven useful for journal keepers, counselors, and teachers
Capacchione is the author of eighteen “Creative Journal Method” books for recovery, healing, and career and life planning. Her publications include the best-selling “Recovery of Your Inner Child” and “The Power of Your Other Hand.”
For more information or to register call 310.452.3881 or email get-involved@smywca.org. The event begins at 11am, Saturday January 23, with a free talk and book signing. The workshop runs from 1-5pm and has a $15 suggested donation.
YWCA Santa Monica/Westside is located at 2019 14th Street Santa Monica
