Join Carla Orlando for the three-session exploration, Way to Being, beginning January 12.
“There is more than me within me…It is I but at the same time much more than I.”
-Andre Rochais, founder PRH International
Way to Being: Painting with Color
Andre Rochais believed that within every human being, there is a universal dimension that goes beyond all cultures or beliefs, a life force that propels them to become themselves and live in relationship to the Spirit. His research resulted in a methodical, contemplative way of following body sensations, helping persons become more aware of their interior world and “being,” a process that respects each person, their freedom, autonomy, dignity, and uniqueness.
In session one, we’ll receive an orientation and instruction of the creative expression process and the methods for written reflection and speaking/listening in a group that relate to and deepen the practice. Tools for creative expression, written reflection, and speaking/listening to others are transferable to an on-going personal practice and for sharing in other, faith-based settings and groups.
Self-Preparation:
What is my heart’s desire for this offering?
What are my motivations, expectations, apprehensions?
Theme:
Where am I in my spiritual journey? What are my consistent and persistent desires, my deep longings?
Method:
Painting with Color
This practice begins slowly, taking time to contemplate the presented theme before making any choices about creative expression. The quiet space allows for the mind to notice a felt sense, a response to the theme from the interior life that is “below the neck,” guided by a body sensation. The choices of color, line, and form follow. Stepping back from the work can deepen the meaning and invite further exploration, “What does this expression reveal to me?”
Materials:
Simple, easy, and inexpensive, meant to encourage freedom and use, located in or around home or found at a local drug store or craft shop. Please do not feel pressured to go to any significant effort or expense to prepare for this program.
- Tempera paints in primary colors or a simple watercolor set;
- Paint brushes of any size;
- Paper, tablet, sketch pad, or unlined journal of any size;
- A large yogurt container for washing brushes;
- A plastic lid for a paint palette;
- Rags or paper towels for spills;
- A board or flat surface for working, protected as needed by newspaper, brown bags, or sheet.
Begins Wednesday, January 12 at 6pm PST, via Zoom. Register here.
Our Guide:
Carla Orlando, M.Ed, is an educator and spiritual director who teaches discernment, reflective writing, and contemplative prayer at Seattle Pacific University and at the Grunewald Guild for art and spirituality. Carla’s ministry includes Spiritual Direction Services at the Ignatian Spirituality Center, the Spiritual Exercises of Everyday Life retreat, the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, and the Jesuit Restorative Justice Initiative. Carla’s somatic method, training, and supervision with PRH (Personnalite et Relations Humaines) International School of Adult Development is integral to her personal approach and guides her work with university students, faculty, organizational professionals, and people of faith.
Questions? Email Sylvia Sepulveda.
Contemplative Creativity meets the the second Wednesday of each month at 6pm PT, via Zoom.