Shambhala Art Lab: Art as a Path of Awakening

This programme is cancelled – registration closed.
Next Shambhala Art workshop will be in 2019

One of the most important, challenging, and frightening aspects of the creative process is being in the unknown. What do you do when there is no one to tell you what to do?
How can we relate to habits that seemingly act as obstacles to creativity? What is the nature of the relationship between our creativity and our daily lives, and how does authentic expression arise?

This programme will encourage us to go beyond our habitual limits by presenting a variety of exercises and spontaneous “challenges” to help develop personal insight into our creative processes and the confidence to manifest authentically, no matter which creative discipline we engage with. Through establishing mindful presence as a core discipline and daring to connect to the vibrant experiences of our hearts and senses, we can begin to recognise all aspects of our life as opportunities for creativity. When we relate to our fears and hesitation with an open attitude, as part of our journey, it becomes possible to have the bravery to leap into a vast world of spontaneous discovery and creation.

Programme description

The programme consists of meditation practice, talks and discussions, practical exercises, and the use of ritual. Through a variety of activities we will experientially explore what it means to remain with openness, and how that can support us to connect to the vividness of our world and inform our creativity and communication. The exercises use a range of materials and techniques including movement, voice, object installations and brush work as methods for exploring ourselves and our world, expanding our personal limits and developing skilful interactions with others.

You do not need prior experience or a formal arts practice participate in this programme. Join us for a delightful exploration to inspire yourself and inspire your world.

Background

The Shambhala Art programme was developed from the Dharma Art teachings of Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche. These teachings about creativity show us how we can relate to ourselves and our world with clarity, discipline, and playfulness. They bring together the creative process and meditation practice, not just for making art but to enliven the creative potential of our whole life. These teachings are very rich in content and can open us to vast fields of perception and expression.

This programme does not present the five part Shambhala Art curriculum, instead it explores these teachings in innovative ways. As a Shambhala Art Lab this programme, Art as a Path of Awakening, is enriched by themes of Daring, Bravery, and Authentic Presence which are drawn from the broader Shambhala teachings to support, expand, and deepen our understanding.

Practical

Arrival day (Sunday April 8): Orientation talk at 8 pm. You’re invited to come from 4 pm in order to register and settle in your room. Dinner is served at 6.45 pm.

End of programme (Friday April 13): Closing circle and Banquet in the evening.

Departure day (Saturday April 14): You may leave anytime (no programme that day). You’re welcome to stay for lunch.

This programme is taught in English. Free translation into French or other languages needs to be confirmed. Important: translation services are possible only if you register your request at least two months in advance of the programme.