In this class, we will start with an ugly, messy base and continue adding layers until we finish a beautiful mixed media collage celebrating new life after loss.
Eventually every one of us will be thrown into a dark pit of despair when faced with significant loss. It doesn't matter if it is the end of a relationship, a job termination, a medical crisis or the death of a loved one. Grief leaves us overwhelmed, angry and exhausted. It is true that we will never return to life-like-it-used-to-be. But that doesn't mean we will always feel this pain. Join us as we explore the transformation from despair to hope!
Each session of this class includes "An Encouraging Word"--a letter from me (your instructor) in which I describe the symbolism for that lesson as well as share from my own experience of walking from grief to hope after the death of a son. Each pdf also includes step by step instructions (with photos) for how to complete this project.
Jill Emmelhainz Welcome to my world—a sometimes messy place to live loud, live colorfully, and live with heART! I am letting creativity flourish in my life as I make art of various kinds, as I pursue dreams, and as I surround myself with beautiful things and kindred spirits.
I am in my second half of life. I am a sometimes-too-independent wife and an always-so-proud mom of seven children, most of whom are grown and wandering the world. I am a voracious reader, a dream-chaser, a wounded hope-er, a born-teacher, and a nomadic gypsy (in my heart). I prefer to live “outside the box” and I hate to be expected to color inside the lines.
I treasure hearing the stories of others. There is a richness found in sharing life experiences and encouraging others along the way. It is an honor to facilitate classes—online and at select retreats—which help participants more clearly understand and interact with their own stories. I have taught people of all ages and am delighted to encourage others to uncover their creativity and pursue their dreams.
Here are my suggestions for supplies you will need for this project. Please, please, feel free to substitute other materials based on what you already have at home or on what fits your budget.
What if I haven’t suffered any of the losses mentioned in the course description?Can I still take this class?
Absolutely! I hope this project will be encouraging to anyone who is grieving any type of loss. If you aren’t grieving but like the look of the final project, you are still welcome to take the class. Please recognize, however, that much of the discussion in the course materials is in direct reference to grief and hope.
What if I don’t already ownthe supplies used in this lesson?
You are welcome to use any supplies you enjoy. Feel free to modify these lessons to make this project work for YOU!
This course looks perfect for my friend who is grieving. Can I share the materials with her?
As clearly stated elsewhere on this site, we ask that only subscribers use these materials. However, I can offer a one-month free trial membership to your friend. After March 1, she can get the discount code from my website. Click on the “Classes” tab, then on the “Growing Hope” link for more information.
I would like to hear more of your story. How can I do that?
Feel free to explore my website (mentioned above). There are links to two blogs I regularly update:The Big Epic is about adventures and Journey2Wonderful is about art. In addition, you are welcome to email me or check out my Facebook page. I look forward to hearing from you!