From Self-Critic to Believer: An Artistic Release
Saturday, November 7
12:00-4:00 PM · Small group · West Charlotte · All materials included
I'm not good enough.
I should be doing more.
I'm too much.
Throughout life, other people’s thoughts and judgements can become part of our internal soundtrack, and sometimes record over our own entirely.
This negativity can come from many directions - someone who raised you, who was supposed to love you, who made you feel less than. Maybe it’s your mom, the beauty industry, your boss, a former teacher, or the shittiest of exes. Whoever they are, they don’t deserve to take up space in your brain.
In this expressive arts workshop, participants will use art to rewrite the script running through their heads. We’ll release the things weighing us down, create some low-stakes art, and work together on creating a new, empowering internal soundtrack.
Through a guided art-making process, you'll put some of those familiar negative thoughts onto a cardboard canvas, then transform, and layer over them with new words of self-compassion and possibility. Life is a lot easier when the voice in your head is on your side.
This workshop is intentionally designed as a trauma-informed creative retreat. You are invited to participate at whatever level feels right for you. You don’t have to share your personal story, explain your artwork, or participate in an activity that doesn't feel right. Breaks are encouraged, and you are welcome to step away at any point. No art skills are required.
Who Is This For?
This is for folks who need to rewrite the soundtrack playing on repeat in their mind. Folks that are “doing the work,” but feel like nothing is changing.
This workshop is a best fit for those who participate in regular therapy sessions. This workshop is not recommended for those less than 9 months out from any traumatic experience.
About Your Facilitator
Alexandra Smith is a creative entrepreneur and trauma survivor. About 9 months into her healing journey, while seeing multiple therapists, she hit a wall. She felt like she was doing the work, but she couldn’t get the critical thoughts in her head to stop playing over and over.
In a spurt of desperate, creative energy, she grabbed a piece of cardboard and let them go. She credits this process as a moment of radical self-love that altered her outlook and helped her move forward. This expressive arts exercise is based on that process.
What’s Included
4 hours of guided creative practice
All art materials
Tea and snacks
A small-group setting limited to 8 participants
Please Note
This workshop will, by design, provide an opportunity to process negative, emotional thoughts. There’s a high possibility that you and/or other participants will cry. You’re invited to bring anything you think you might need to stay regulated including headphones, a journal, your favorite treat, a cozy blanket, etc.
This workshop will take place indoors & outdoors at a private creative retreat (address sent after purchase). We will be utilizing spray paint, sharpies, and paint markers during this workshop. Masks, aprons, and gloves will be provided.