What is meant when we speak of creativity? How is creativity connected to spirituality? What’s the difference between creativity and art? How can art be a contemplative practice?

Human beings have a desire to create. A look through an art history book reveals how humans through the centuries have found and developed tools and methods to express themselves, communicate in modes other than orally, and create aesthetically pleasing environments. The need and desire to create is ongoing. As humans, we create a life based on our desires. Most often that involves where we live, with whom we live, the nature of our work, and the nature of our play. As we mature, we begin to realize that we want to use our creativity in spiritual ways. We want to express through art the life lessons we’ve learned. We want to use our creativity to help others, through contemplative, communal, or social justice avenues. 

In this course we look at the life of Vincent van Gogh for inspiration. Vincent was a deeply spiritual man and his art and letters reflect that. He is a wonderful model for us, as you will learn.

Through written lessons, contemplative lectio and visio divina exercises, and hands-on art making, this course brings creativity to life.

In this course you will use your own creative ability to create a beautiful book you will treasure. Step by step demonstrations are given, yet each participant’s book will uniquely reflect their own interests and style.

Plus, we will have our own Facebook Group (this is optional) so we can share what we are creating, encourage and inspire one another.

If you have suspected that there is something spiritual in the creative process and wanted to learn more, this course is for you.

If you are looking for a creative way to reflect on the spiritual side of life, this course is for you.

Come join me for a fun, relaxing, and inspiring experience. I’ve designed the course to be like a retreat. A time for you to get to know your artist within and a little more about the Great Artist at work in the world.

Susan Ernst is a spiritual director, artist, horticulturist, naturalist, wife, mother and grandmother who believes that creativity is everyone’s birthright, and that we are all artists of life. Susan researched the connections between creativity, nature and spirituality at Yale Divinity School from 2015-2018. While there, she did an artist in residency at the Yale Landscape Lab. She received her spiritual direction training through the Selah Center for Spiritual Formation program. Susan facilitates contemplative art (including art journaling, SoulCollage®, JourneyCircles™, MoonCircles™) and nature contemplation workshops and daylong retreats in person and online. She and her husband live in Springfield, TN.  Susan may be contacted at vibrantgrowtharts@gmail.com.

Register Here!