SSA Week 2 | Painting our Inner Landscapes

This 6-Day course is part of our annual Spring Sacred Arts (SSA) Program, beginning on Sunday, May 10th and ending on Friday, May 15th. Class takes place Monday morning through Thursday morning, with additional programming on Sunday and Friday.

Let’s make paintings of our inner landscapes – taking the shapes of mountains, lakes, and other wilderness places that become metaphors for the depths within us. Expect lots of time to paint in an uncomplicated, fun, and free method, along with pauses for wisdom readings and contemplative reflection via meditation and journaling. All that is required is your time and attention to what is arising on the surface of the canvas or board, and within your own heart.

What creative modalities are used in this course?

Sketching and acrylic painting.

What will class time be like?

In this course, you will complete at least one, and likely several, finished paintings. This course will provide lessons on basic color theory (mood of colors), basic composition (positive/negative space, subject/background). Matt will demonstrate his own art practice and previous works, teach a simple making process, introduce guided meditation, invite journaling and reflection time. You will gain confidence in an art practice that can serve you in any future capacity. 

Will I need to work outside of class?

Nope! Though I do encourage engagement with the themes and explorations throughout the week, all work can be done in class time. Output and production of finished works is entirely up to the participant. If you want to fill a sketchbook or journal with small paintings or create larger-scale artworks, it is entirely up to you!

Do I need experience to take this class?

I welcome participants of all levels of experience: seasoned artists, total beginners, all contemplative practitioners, spiritual wayfarers, and those who don’t quite call themselves artists but seek a creative path forward. Teaching will be offered in ways that support technical growth, creative habit-building, and inward listening, allowing each participant to meet the work at their own pace. Varying exercises and activities will be offered each day that are suitable for the skill level of the participant.

What do I need to bring to class?

All essential materials will be provided. If you have a special place – a mountain, a lake, a park – bring photos of these to work from as a reference. Printed images are recommended – looking at a phone is OK, but can be distracting. Bring a journal to write with, and clothing you don’t mind getting paint on.