Art for Cancer Wellness: Process Painting Survivors Group with Em, Summer 2024

Kits to Heart Art for Cancer Wellness participant artwork

Workshop Title: Process Painting Survivors Group
Facilitator: 
Em Jones, MA, LGPAT, ATR-P, BFA
Dates: Mondays, 7 PM to 8:30 PM ET/6 PM to 7:30 PM CT

  • June 10
  • June 17
  • June 24
  • July 1

Workshop Description: In this weekly four-session workshop series facilitated by art therapist Em Jones, participants are invited to engage in the process of El Duende one-canvas painting.

Each week, group members will be guided to nonverbally explore their thoughts, feelings, and current experiences by developing one canvas painting over the six sessions. The El Duende method invites participants to explore the concepts of layering, rhythm and tension, sensory engagement, and visual interest, bringing forth emotional vibrancy and authenticity through cumulative process painting.

Over four weeks of writing and painting, this workshop aims to facilitate self-expression and the discharge of negative energy through art-making, invite relaxation and flow, and encourage support in a creative and healing virtual group atmosphere.

No prior art experience is required for this group—participants are encouraged to work within their own comfort and skill level. Please be mindful that this is an art therapy group, not an art class, and is designed as a supportive group with creative therapeutic processing.

Workshop Materials: Participants will be provided with one canvas and basic acrylic painting materials. Participants are also welcome to use any other painting materials they have available and will also be given a small lined notebook for writing.

Week-by-Week Overview: Each workshop will be structured as follows:

  • Group feeling check-in;
  • Art making;
  • Reflective writing;
  • Group discussion;
  • Breath work and closing.