No one comes in as an expert here. This is the first time this program has been offered, which means every participant will be learning and discovering alongside one another. Come ready to try new things, to listen, to create, and to be surprised by what unfolds.

Artful Awakenings is open to anyone 16 and older. You don’t need to be an artist or have any special background—this space is for anyone who is willing to come curious and open to trying something new.

There is no cost to participate, and everything you’ll need will be provided. Just bring yourself, a journal if you’d like, and a spirit of curiosity.

Each gathering will last about 90 minutes and follow a simple rhythm:

• Grounding – beginning with stillness and breath

• Practice – a guided creative exercise (poetry, visual art, collage, writing, or sound)

• Noticing – time to sit quietly, journal, or reflect on what emerges

• Sharing – listening to one another with care and without judgment

Closing – a ritual to mark what we’ve experienced and carry it with usn text goes here

Part of the beauty of this journey is that no two weeks are the same. Each gathering will introduce a different creative practice—whether through language, image, movement, or sound. Together these varied practices weave a tapestry of experiences, inviting us to encounter ourselves, one another, and the sacred in new and meaningful ways.

We’d love for you to be part of all six gatherings, since each week adds to the flow of the journey. But we know life happens, and you are welcome even if you miss a session. Participation is always invitational—share as much or as little as feels comfortable for you. That said, the more you lean in, the more you’re likely to discover.

We'd love to invite you to be part of something meaningful beyond your own experience. This Artful Awakening program is part of a Doctor of Ministry research study exploring a beautiful question: How do art, poetry, and lyrics help cultivate embodied spirituality?

If this resonates with you, you're invited to share your journey through:

• Brief reflections before and after our six weeks together

• Short weekly writings about what you're noticing and discovering

• Perhaps a brief conversation to go deeper into your experience

Your story and insights could help others discover the transformative gift of creative practices. Every reflection you share adds to our understanding of how creativity opens us to the sacred.

Of course, your participation in the research is completely voluntary and confidential. You're wholeheartedly welcome to join Artful Awakening whether or not you choose to share your experience for research. The invitation is simply there if it feels meaningful to contribute your voice to this exploration.