Lighting the Dark:

Creating Talismans Through Stories and Art

with Joanne Ramseyer, LCPC, ATR-BC

Saturday February 26, 1-4 pm

$45 by 2/18, $55 after, CEUs: 3

Traditional folk, fairy tales, myths and poems are rich in symbolic content, embody timeless wisdom and foster faith in the power of transformation and healing. Many stories involve the use of talismans to carry the bearer through terrible ordeals and suffering. Using a rendition of the Russian folktale, "Baba Yaga and Vasalisa the Brave," this experiential workshop will explore the psychological dimensions of the story through discussion, expressive art making and story writing activities. Workshop participants will create their own talisman, doll, shrine, or other symbolic image to accompany them through the journey of "entering a dark forest and finding a fire to light the way back." This workshop will benefit those who wish to cope with the darkness of the winter months through the pleasure of creative work in community, or clinicians and educators who would like to learn expressive arts methods for working with stories and art in their settings. Art/writing experience is not necessary. Dress for mess! Fee includes all materials but bring any special charms, or embellishments you would like to incorporate into your art piece.

To register: contact C.G. Jung Center at 847-475-4848, x221 or www.cgjungcenter.org There is a $15 processing fee for CEUs.

Location: Blue Lotus Art Studio, 912 Sherman Ave., Evanston, IL 60202

Joanne Ramseyer, ATR-BC, LCPC, is an artist, educator and art therapist and the Director of Blue Lotus Art Studio. She has extensive experience facilitating expressive arts activities for all ages. Joanne is an Adjunct Faculty Member of The School of the Art Institute of Chicago and Northwestern University. She has taught classes and workshops on many topics including the creative process and artistic development; art, nature and spirituality; exploring fairy tales and myths through art and story writing; group art therapy and the role of women’s creativity in trauma recovery.