Tag Archives: Loss

Creative Writing – July 2016 “World Horrors” Poem by Karen Robinson

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People gather in front of a memorial on the Promenade des Anglais, where the truck crashed into the crowd during the Bastille Day celebrations. Photograph: Ian Langsdon/EPA

People gather in front of a memorial on the Promenade des Anglais, where the truck crashed into the crowd during the Bastille Day celebrations. Photograph: Ian Langsdon/EPA

 

INTRODUCTION

I wrote the following poem as a personal response to the dreadful news of the truck attacker in France, whom had killed over 80 people and seriously injured many others, nearly 24 hours after a Bastille Day celebration.  This continual onslaught against innocent men, women and children going about their daily lives – is just devastating.  To all those whom have lost loved ones, my deepest condolences; and to all those experiencing serious injury, may you have a speedy recovery. And to those whom experienced this horror directly, may you find peace as time marches on.

 

MY POEM TITLED “WORLD HORRORS”




It's so dreadfully hard not to be torn down by the daily news.

Reading, listening, seeing the world horrors just gives me the blues.

 

What happened to my understanding of it being a safe 
and wonderful place?

Did it get jarred away by us -- us being the human race?

 

I fear for what my children's children will have to contend with,

as they hear of this once beautiful planet. Was it all just a myth?

 

But I bring myself back to the now and I say,

that I only have the power of me and then I pray

 

not to the gods of man who need belief to exist,

not to the night heavens that continue to persist,

 

but to future generations of us humans at play,

that somehow they will do much better -- better than we have today.


Poem © Karen Robinson, July 2016

 

 

THE “ART OF PEACE” PAINTING – ACRYLIC PAINT ON H.W. PAPER 2014

 

Image No. 1 - Art & Creative Writing 'The Art of Peace' by Karen Robinson - Abstract Artist 20-12-2014 Acrylic Paint on HW Paper NB All images are subject to copyright laws.JPG

Image No. 1 – Art & Creative Writing ‘The Art of Peace’ by Karen Robinson – Abstract Artist 20-12-2014 Acrylic Paint on H.W. Paper.  By clicking on the image above, it will lead you to a blog I wrote about my own country’s terrifying and violent siege at the Lindt Chocolate Cafe in Sydney’s Martin Place – Australia.  The above image I created in response to that event and is a representation of our world floating in a sea of darkness.  Written by Karen Robinson NB:  All images are protected by copyright laws.

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CONCLUSION

It’s hard to write here a concluding sentence except just to say that we must have the hope that the human race will find its way…

 

Written by ©Karen Robinson – July 2016

Whilst you are here – please check out my home page!  Post-Traumatic Growth:  My Art Therapy Journey – A window into the soul of an Abstract Artist through art therapy and storytelling…by Karen Robinson

My Volunteering

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Source: My Volunteering

Abstract Painting No. 45E Titled 'Reaching Out To Sons' Acrylic on Canvas 91cms Length x 91cms Wide x 3cms Deep by Karen Robinson Abstract Artist - 2011 NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG

Abstract Painting No. 45E Titled ‘Reaching Out To Sons’ Acrylic on Canvas 91cms Length x 91cms Wide x 3cms Deep by Karen Robinson Abstract Artist – 2011.  Inspired by telling my family’s road trauma story at Road Trauma awareness Seminars most months since March 2011 about my son Ben who was killed in a single vehicle car crash on 5th November 2009 – in the hope that RTAS participants, repeat road traffic offenders will rethink about their risky driver behaviour and in turn save lives, reduce serious injury and lessen the ripple effect of road trauma.  Painting story/meaning can be found within this weblog page for ‘My Volunteering’.  NB:  All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG

 

This is a new weblog page I have added which is about my volunteering with Road Trauma Support Services Victoria (RTSSV).  I have been doing this most worthy task since the beginning of 2011 – in memory of my son who was killed in a single vehicle car crash, at the age of 25 on the 5th November 2009…Please click here to view…Karen Robinson

While you are here – please check out my home page!

 

Creative Writing – November 2015 “Paris…” Poem by Karen Robinson

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1 of 8 Creative Writing - Poem Titled 'Paris' and Schminchke & Liquitex Ink on Cotton A3 297x420mm 300GSM by Karen Robinson 17-11-2015 Copyright Protected.JPG

1 of 8 Creative Writing – Poem Titled ‘Paris’ and Schminchke & Liquitex Ink on Cotton A3 297x420mm 300GSM by Karen Robinson 17-11-2015 Copyright Protected.JPG

 

INTRODUCTION

The Paris multiple attacks where more than 120 people were killed and more than 350 people were injured with about 100 of those seriously – via a series of coordinated terrorist attacks, was shocking news.   The tragic loss of loved ones, family, friends and workmates must be unbearable for those directly impacted and for the people of France this needless atrocity must be impossible to fathom.

 

POEM INSPIRATION

The amazing resilience of the France people had inspired me to write this very short and simple poem.  I have also accompanied it with an ink painting I have created which represents the French flag colours and I have used the now iconic symbol being ‘Peace for Paris’ which has spread around the world.  I humbly and respectfully share my words here below.

 

Title:  “Paris…” Acrostic Poem

 



Peace we need to seek and search for in our every day,

Alliance with those that treasure humanity,

Resisting the temptation to run and hide,

Illuminating the courage of those who bravely step forward,

Silencing those who seek to crush...

 

Acrostic Poem ©Karen Robinson, November 2015

 

 

2 of 8 Creative Writing – Poem Titled ‘Paris’ and Schminchke & Liquitex Ink on Cotton A3 297x420mm 300GSM by Karen Robinson 17-11-2015 Copyright Protected.JPG
3 of 8 Creative Writing – Poem Titled ‘Paris’ and Schminchke & Liquitex Ink on Cotton A3 297x420mm 300GSM by Karen Robinson 17-11-2015 Copyright Protected.JPG
8 of 8 Creative Writing – Poem Titled ‘Paris’ and Schminchke & Liquitex Ink on Cotton A3 297x420mm 300GSM by Karen Robinson 17-11-2015 Copyright Protected.JPG
4 of 8 Creative Writing – Poem Titled ‘Paris’ and Schminchke & Liquitex Ink on Cotton A3 297x420mm 300GSM by Karen Robinson 17-11-2015 Copyright Protected.JPG
6 of 8 Creative Writing – Poem Titled ‘Paris’ and Schminchke & Liquitex Ink on Cotton A3 297x420mm 300GSM by Karen Robinson 17-11-2015 Copyright Protected.JPG
5 of 8 Creative Writing – Poem Titled ‘Paris’ and Schminchke & Liquitex Ink on Cotton A3 297x420mm 300GSM by Karen Robinson 17-11-2015 Copyright Protected.JPG
7 of 8 Creative Writing – Poem Titled ‘Paris’ and Schminchke & Liquitex Ink on Cotton A3 297x420mm 300GSM by Karen Robinson 17-11-2015 Copyright Protected.JPG

 

CONCLUSION

Peace for Paris – peace for the world…we must try…

 

Whilst you are here – please check out my home page!  My Art Therapy Journey – A window into the soul of an Abstract Artist through art therapy and storytelling…by Karen Robinson

Creative Writing – October 2015 “Crying Roses…” Poem by Karen Robinson

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No. 5 of 5 Creative Writing - Poem Titled 'Crying Roses' written and photographed by Karen Robinson 5th November 2015.JPG

No. 5 of 5 Creative Writing – Photo taken by Karen Robinson at Fawkner Memorial Park, Melbourne, Australia on the 5th November 2015. The rain drenched roses featured in the photo were used as a source of inspiration for a Poem Titled ‘Crying Roses…’ written by Karen Robinson to mark the 6th anniversary of her son’s death who was killed in a single vehicle car crash on the 5th November 2009.JPG

 

INTRODUCTION

It’s that time of the year again, a time that marks another year where my husband and I especially on this day, the 5th November 2015, take a drive to Fawkner Memorial Park to pay our respects to the memory of our son.  Over the last five years, each of these days have been strangely beautiful amongst the extraordinary array of fully bloomed roses.  Each year signifies, that our choice of Memorial Park to place our son’s ashes was the right choice, as it serves as our quiet place to think of Ben and how much we miss him so.  To ponder about, what it would have been like, if he was still here with us today!

 

NoNo. 1 of 5 Creative Writing - Mark & Karen's son's plaque which sits proudly over the cavity that holds his ashes at Fawkner Memorial Park, Melbourne, Australia on 5th November 2015 used as inspiration to write a Poem Titled 'Crying Roses' to mark the 6th anniversay of his death. Photographed by Karen Robinson - Ben's mum 5.11.15.JPG

No. 1 of 5 Creative Writing – Mark & Karen’s son’s plaque which sits proudly over the cavity that holds his ashes at Fawkner Memorial Park, Melbourne, Australia on 5th November 2015 used as inspiration to write a Poem Titled ‘Crying Roses’ to mark the 6th anniversary of his death. Photographed by Karen Robinson – Ben’s mum 5.11.15.JPG

 

POEM INSPIRATION

Upon our arrival at Fawkner Memorial Park, and as I was alighting from the car and walking across towards Ben’s Plaque and then through the wonderful array of fully bloomed roses, I was taken aback by the rain drenched roses.  I had never seen roses so full of water and one rose in particular looked like there were tears falling from its heart!  The rain drops appeared to me like it was crying…

 

No. 2 of 5 Creative Writing - Poem Titled 'Crying Roses' written and photographed by Karen Robinson 5th November 2015.JPG

No. 2 of 5 Creative Writing – Poem Titled ‘Crying Roses’ written and photographed by Karen Robinson 5th November 2015.JPG

 

I found myself saying out loud to my husband “Look, the roses look like they are crying…”.  It felt profound to make such a statement and perhaps it was just a reflection of how I felt in my own heart right at that particular moment.  On my return, I wrote the below poem to mark the 6th anniversary of my boy’s death.

 

Title:  “Crying Roses…” Poem

 


It’s raining and the roses look like they are crying.

Perhaps they know we are here amongst the ones

who were once dying.

 


Both my husband and I stop and sit in silence,

thinking about our loss and leaning on one another

with great reliance.

 


It’s been 6 years now since the passing of our son.

We often think why -- why did he have to be the one.

 

It’s now time to stand
and walk a little amongst the rain drenched roses,

and I seek my dear husband’s guidance to do some poses

 

for each year we make this pilgrimage to remember

and always on the 5th of November.

 

A coffee and cake we share

where conversation is mostly spare



then it’s back home and a chat with our daughter,

the one we now look towards, in our family, to be the mortar.

 

How precious she is to both of us

and our endless love for her will always be a must.

 

Poem © Karen Robinson - November 2015

 

PHOTO-TAKING IMPORTANT

Photo-taking has been what I have done most of my life, the recording of special family moments!  And I have always taken photos on these days.  I learned that taking photos is just so important, they serve the memory well when loved ones have passed, when the memory begins to fail and for further generations to ponder over and wonder…

 

No. 3 of 5 Creative Writing – Poem Titled ‘Crying Roses’ written and photographed by Karen Robinson 5th November 2015.JPG
No. 4 of 5 Creative Writing – Poem Titled ‘Crying Roses’ written and photographed by Karen Robinson 5th November 2015.JPG
No. 1 of 5 Creative Writing – Poem Titled ‘Crying Roses’ written and photographed by Karen Robinson 5th November 2015.JPG
No. 5 of 5 Creative Writing – Poem Titled ‘Crying Roses’ written and photographed by Karen Robinson 5th November 2015.JPG
No. 2 of 5 Creative Writing – Poem Titled ‘Crying Roses’ written and photographed by Karen Robinson 5th November 2015.JPG

 

CONCLUSION

It’s another day now and the sun has come out and dried up all the rain … time to go out and play, rejoice and enjoy the one and only life we get to live…

 

Whilst you are here – please check out my home page!  My Art Therapy Journey – A window into the soul of an Abstract Artist through art therapy and storytelling…by Karen Robinson

Art Therapy Group Session Three – July 2015 “What is important!…Mandala” by Karen Robinson

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No. 6 of 7 Art Therapy Group July 2015 ‘What is important for me today!’ Mandala Exercise – Artwork by Karen Robinson Abstract Artist NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG

 

 

INTRODUCTION

Today was our third group art therapy session and consisted of a number of individual exercises.  Here within this weblog, I have included just the one!  For our first art for therapy exercise, we were asked to create a circular mandala that would be made up of a number of sections.

 

About Mandalas

Mandala means ‘circle’ in the Sanskrit language and is a spiritual and ritual symbol in Hinduism and Buddhism, representing the Universe.  The basic form of most mandalas is a square with four gates containing a circle with a center point.  It can be used as a psychological and educational approach to human development and offers a conceptual model for understanding how we can heal, develop, and transform consciousness (Mandala Symbolism).

Please find below here an amazing time-lapse YouTube about –

“the making of a Mandala by the Tibetan Monks who painstakingly spend five days to design and place tiny grains of sand to create a beautiful work of temporary art.  On day 6 they scoop up the sand and place it in a body of water, releasing the energy of the project back into the community” (The Crow Collection of Asian Art Jan 20, 2010)

 

EXERCISE 1 – “What is important!…Mandala” 

Each section of the mandala we were to make in this art therapy session was to represent something that was important to us as individuals on this particular day.  We were given a sheet of paper and a large bowl which was used to create the outer rim of the circle.  Materials supplied consisted of magazines that we could cut out selected images and paste onto the mandala, felt pens for easy drawing application, oil pastels, crayons and ink pens.

 

No. 1 of 7 Art Therapy Group July 2015 ‘What is important for me today!’ Mandala Exercise – Artwork by Karen Robinson Abstract Artist NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG

 

I decided to work with some images from the magazines, and with ink pens and felt pens for quick, easy application.  We had approximately 20 minutes to achieve but by the time we actually got started and completed the exercise, it was more like 40 minutes all up.  After completing the task each of us in turn explained what our mandala was all about.  Above is an image of my whole mandala and below – images of each section with an explanation of its meaning for me.

 

 

No. 2 of 7 Art Therapy Group July 2015 ‘What is important for me today!’ Mandala Exercise – Artwork by Karen Robinson Abstract Artist NB All images are protected by copyright laws

Mandala Section 1 – ‘Mother Nature’ Important to me!  My husband has create around our home a beautiful garden.  Now 15 years on in its development, we have large mature trees and brushes that attract the local native birds.  Be in winter, spring, summer or autumn – our garden offers a slice of nature just outside our back and front door – good for the soul!

 

 

No. 3 of 7 Art Therapy Group July 2015 ‘What is important for me today!’ Mandala Exercise – Artwork by Karen Robinson Abstract Artist NB All images are protected by copyright laws

Mandala Section 2 – ‘Coffee’ Important to me!  When my husband and I were at the peak of our grieving process from the loss of our son, we would take ourselves out and find a quiet place to have a cup of coffee.  It was a time where we found it hard to get out and mix with others. This coffee outing treat, helped us both feel that we were not alone, that we were still connected to the rest of the world.  At times we would just sit, sip our coffee, read the paper, or just quietly take in what was happening around us.  So having a cup of coffee out at a cafe’ was important to us and still is these years – it’s a small treat for us both.

 

 

No. 4 of 7 Art Therapy Group July 2015 ‘What is important for me today!’ Mandala Exercise – Artwork by Karen Robinson Abstract Artist NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG

Mandala Section 3 – ‘Art for Therapy’ Important to me!  The engagement of art for therapy in the way of abstract painting, creative writing and blogging is very important to me.  It helps me everyday maintain a good sense of wellbeing.

 

 

No. 5 of 7 Art Therapy Group July 2015 ‘What is important for me today!’ Mandala Exercise – Artwork by Karen Robinson Abstract Artist NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG

Mandala Section 4 – ‘Good Health’ Important to me!  During the period of time when I was my husband’s carer, as he recovered from chemotherapy, and during the period of time where my husband and I were deeply grieving for the loss of our son, my personal physical and mental health declined to a point where if was beginning to shorten my life span drastically.  My mental health has improved and my physical strength has returned. I am now eating better, walking each day and sleeping soundly.  Good health has become a top priority for me to ensure I can live a long and productive life.

 

 

No. 6 of 7 Art Therapy Group July 2015 ‘What is important for me today!’ Mandala Exercise – Artwork by Karen Robinson Abstract Artist NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG

Mandala Section 5 – ‘People in my life’ Important to me!  More than ever before, the people in my life are essential to my existence as a mother, wife, friend, colleague, art therapy group participant, creative writing group participant and as a volunteer worker. All these people who I come in contact with, week in and week out, help to ensure I have meaning and purpose in my everyday.

 

 

No. 7 of 7 Art Therapy Group July 2015 ‘What is important for me today!’ Mandala Exercise – Artwork by Karen Robinson Abstract Artist NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG

Mandala Section 6 – ‘Equilibrium’ Important to me!  Everyday I look for equilibrium in my life.  A balance between all of the other elements that may up my day.  When things look like they are getting out of balance, I take a deep breath and reassess and look for the things that tick the happy box!

 

CONCLUSION

We completed a couple more exercises and then packed up at the completion of the art therapy session.   We headed across to the local restaurant for a bite to eat and a friendly chat. It’s a great way to finish up on a positive note and it always works for me…

 

NB:  For the purposes of this weblog series “Art Therapy Group Sessions 2015“, I will not be mentioning any names or personal details of participants or even the name of the organisation that runs the sessions.  Individuals have the right to privacy, so it will only be about my own experience – and broad statements about each particular session.  I hope you will understand.

Whilst you are here – please check out my home page!  My Art Therapy Journey – A window into the soul of an Abstract Artist through art therapy and storytelling…by Karen Robinson

New Membership – Regional Arts Victoria ‘Just become a member!’ by Karen Robinson

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Regional Arts Victoria Logo.png

 

I have just become a member of Regional Arts Victoria.  They “inspire art across the state of Victoria through creative facilitation, touring, education, specialised resources, artistic projects and advocacy.  They develop and sustain creative communities and artistic practice” all over Victoria, Australia (Regional Arts Victoria 2015).

Regional Arts Victoria are an “independent, not-for-profit, membership-based organisation working in long-term partnerships with every level of government, fostering contemporary and innovative regional cultural practice across five decades.  They advise and impact on decision-making across multiple portfolios and levels of government.  The organisation is the peak body for regional artists and arts organisations, and the leading organisation for regional creative practice in Victoria, Australia” (Regional Arts Victoria 2015).

This is exciting for me and I am hoping that I will have lots to share through my blogging as I become more familiar with this organisation.

 

My Art Therapy Journey – A window into the soul of an Abstract Artist through art therapy and storytelling…by Karen Robinson – Abstract Artist/Blogger/Story-teller/Photo-taker

Art Therapy Group Session 2, 3 and 4 for 2015 – “It get’s you thinking…” by Karen Robinson

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No. 19-20 ArtTherapy Group Sessions 2,3 & 4 Art Works created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb-Mar 2015 NB All images are protected by Copyright.JPG
No. 16-20 Art Therapy Group Sessions 2,3 & 4 Art Works created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb-Mar 2015 NB All images are protected by Copyright.JPG

 

INTRODUCTION

Art Therapy Group Sessions 1, 2, 3 and 4 – 2015 have been just as interesting and revealing as demonstrated in the first lot of group sessions I participated in during 2014. Being my second round of art therapy, I have been finding the sessions more enjoyable and less confronting. But I have noticed that for some other participants, being their first experience with art therapy, are at times finding the art therapy sessions emotionally challenging.

 

ART THERAPY SESSION NO. 2

Exercise 1 – “Yellow & Black Cut Up Painting on A4 Paper”

For one of the art therapy exercises, we were asked to think about a problem we currently have in our lives.  Once we had formulated this within our minds, we were then instructed to paint/draw it onto a sheet of paper. What came to mind for me, was a difficult relationship that exists between a family member and their young grown-up child and how this relationship has caused grief and despair for both parties over a long period of time. So I painted one black rectangle with a yellow circle in it and another rectangle in yellow with a black circle in it. This for me, was representative of how both parties had the same DNA, yet a huge chasm sadly exists between them.

Once we had completed our drawing/painting, we were then instructed to tear and/or cut up the drawing/painting itself. This was a significant process and very symbolic.  By tearing/cutting up our drawing/painting, we were effectively breaking up our problem into smaller, more manageable pieces to deal with.  It also appeared to look different, hence giving me the opportunity to look at my own problem in a different way. An interesting process that got all the participants thinking that our problems can be approached in different ways, if we are prepared to take a different approach and perhaps instead of looking at a problem as a whole, that we take some time out to see it in smaller tasks that might be easier to handle – even if only part of the problem is solved with other parts left to resolved perhaps at a latter date.

 

No. 1-1 Art Therapy Group Sessions 2,3, and 4 Art Works created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb-Mar 2015 All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG

 

No. 2-20 Art Therapy Group Sessions 2,3 & 4 Art Works created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb-Mar 2015 NB All images are protected by Copyright.JPG
No. 1-20 Art Therapy Group Sessions 2,3 & 4 Art Works created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb-Mar 2015 NB All images are protected by Copyright.JPG

 

Exercise 2 –  “Happy Boxes Made In Clay”

This next art therapy exercise involved taking a large block of clay, approximately the size of a square-shaped brick. We were then asked to close our eyes and start working the clay with our hands. We were asked to make something with it and I decided I was going to make something positive – I just didn’t want to have any negative emotions and feelings at work in this particular activity. We were given a period of approximately 10 minutes for this part of the process. I personally enjoyed moulding the clay but there were others that found it hard and didn’t enjoy. During the closed eyes part, I started making what I like to called ‘happy boxes’. I made a set of them and decorated the tops with a pencil. It was interesting to see what others had made and the symbolism of their work.

 

No. 5-20 ArtTherapy Group Sessions 2,3 & 4 Art Works created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb-Mar 2015 NB All images are protected by Copyright.JPG
No. 4-20 ArtTherapy Group Sessions 2,3 & 4 Art Works created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb-Mar 2015 NB All images are protected by Copyright.JPG
No. 3-20 Art Therapy Group Sessions 2,3 & 4 Art Works created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb-Mar 2015 NB All images are protected by Copyright.JPG

 

ART THERAPY SESSION NO. 3

Exercise 3 – “Australian Native Garden Drawn with Pastels on A4 Paper”

For this particular art therapy exercise, we were asked to close our eyes and visualise sitting on a magic rug that was to take us on a ride. We were asked to imagine where the magic rug was taking us and to imagine where its final destination would be. Some of the participants’ magic rug journeys were sad, emotional and distressing, others had journeys that were pleasant and comforting. For me, I had a good journey across the grass fields opposite where I live, across homes and gardens within my suburb.  My final resting place was within my own home garden. My dear husband over 15 years has grown from bare earth, a beautiful Australian Native Plant garden and it offers both of us in our autumn years, much joy and peace.

 

No. 7-20 Art Therapy Group Sessions 2,3 & 4 Art Works created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb-Mar 2015 NB All images are protected by Copyright.JPG
No. 8-20 ArtTherapy Group Sessions 2,3 & 4 Art Works created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb-Mar 2015 NB All images are protected by Copyright.JPG
No. 6-20 Art Therapy Group Sessions 2,3 & 4 Art Works created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb-Mar 2015 NB All images are protected by Copyright.JPG

 

Exercise 4 – “People Scene Drawn with Pastels on A4 Paper”

This was a very interesting art therapy exercise. We were handed a set of cards. These cards each had an individual image. We were required to take a card from the pack without sharing the image on the card with another and then partner up with the person next to ourselves. Each partner was required to describe the details of the card to the partner, without the partner seeing the card. The partner was required to draw from this description on a sheet of paper. Once each partner had completed the task, we all showed our cards, shared our experience and drawing with the group. This for me, was a process that really required a great deal of trust in another. It required a degree of understanding that at times, we need to surrender our desire to want to control all circumstances. I didn’t have a problem with the task, as I trusted my partner, to do her best to inform me of details that would enable me to complete my drawing from her description. I also noticed that I wasn’t too concerned about how different my drawing might be from her card. I really just enjoyed the process but I did see and understand that some others struggled with letting go and just taking it as it comes and not getting stressed out because it didn’t look the same as the card image. It was a very good activity about effective listening, communicating, trust, understanding that we cannot always be responsible for another’s actions, we can only be responsible for our own.

 

No. 11-20 ArtTherapy Group Sessions 2,3 & 4 Art Works created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb-Mar 2015 NB All images are protected by Copyright.JPG
No. 10-20 ArtTherapy Group Sessions 2,3 & 4 Art Works created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb-Mar 2015 NB All images are protected by Copyright.JPG
No. 9-20 Art Therapy Group Sessions 2,3 & 4 Art Works created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb-Mar 2015 NB All images are protected by Copyright.JPG

 

ART THERAPY SESSION NO. 4

Exercise 5 – “Two People Talking Drawn with Black Felt Pen on A4 Paper”

The art therapist had us do a series of sketches that involved firstly choosing a card from a pack of cards without the knowledge of what we were about to be asked to do.  Once each of us had our chosen card we were asked to do the following:

  • 1. Drawing the card image with dominate hand without looking at the card image
  • 2. Looking at the card image and drawing the card image with our dominate hand
  • 3. Looking at the card image and drawing the card image with non dominate hand
  • 4. Drawing the card image with dominate hand without taking the pen off the paper

What was firstly revealing was how little we had listened to the instructions first up.  How we really needed to have paid attention to fully comprehend what seemed like simple instructions.  Another revealing factor was that most of us preferred the last of our images being No. 4 – drawing with dominate hand without taking the pen off the paper.

No. 12-20 ArtTherapy Group Sessions 2,3 & 4 Art Works created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb-Mar 2015 NB All images are protected by Copyright.JPG
No. 13-20 ArtTherapy Group Sessions 2,3 & 4 Art Works created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb-Mar 2015 NB All images are protected by Copyright.JPG
No. 14-20 ArtTherapy Group Sessions 2,3 & 4 Art Works created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb-Mar 2015 NB All images are protected by Copyright.JPG
No. 15-20 ArtTherapy Group Sessions 2,3 & 4 Art Works created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb-Mar 2015 NB All images are protected by Copyright.JPG

 

Exercise 6 – “Fence and Barbed Wire Section of Group Mural on Length of Butcher Paper”

Our last activity for session 4 was a group activity based on producing a group mural.  I had, in 2014 participated in such a task and was familiar with what to expect, which did help me prepare myself to just enjoy the process and not be to ‘precious’ about my artistic endeavours.  We were required to paint/draw an image and then think about how it could be connected to the person’s art work, either side of ourselves.  I was happy with my image, which I did in paint with bold orange fence posts, out lined in charcoal with two runs of charcoal barbed wire running through them.  As I stared at my art work, I realised that it could be the fence posts and the barbed wire that could be the connecting theme running through the whole mural work.  For me, I found the task enjoyable.  My only concerns during the process was to ensure I had consulted properly with the rest of the group to ensure they were going to be happy with what I proposed as a way of connecting all our individual art works, for my part.  Some of the group were apprehensive about having another mark their part of the mural work but after some general conversation, they came to appreciate that it was a group work of art and as per the instructions given by the art therapist we needed to ‘give and take’ during the group mural task at hand. All group participants in my group got the idea and all individually went about adding in their personal contribution to the other participants mural art work sections.

 

No. 20-20 Art Therapy Group Sessions 2,3 & 4 Art Works created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb-Mar 2015 NB All images are protected by Copyright.JPG

 

No. 19-20 ArtTherapy Group Sessions 2,3 & 4 Art Works created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb-Mar 2015 NB All images are protected by Copyright.JPG
No. 18-20 Art Therapy Group Sessions 2,3 & 4 Art Works created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb-Mar 2015 NB All images are protected by Copyright.JPG

 

CONCLUSION

Over the course of participating within these art therapy session for 2014 and 2015, it is very clear to me that it is not about the art, but about what we are thinking and how we apply that thinking to the art work itself. The art therapy process can present as a challenge for some participants.  Some, also find it hard to let go of the fact that their art work is not a representation of being a good artist or not; and struggle to make an open acceptance that it’s about self exploration; that the art work is just a vehicle that is used to achieve that outcome.

 

NB:  For the purposes of this weblog series “Art Therapy Group 2015”, I will not be mentioning any names or personal details of participants or even the name of the organisation that runs the sessions.  Individuals have the right to privacy, so it will only be about my own experience – and broad statements about each particular session.  I hope you will understand.

Whilst you are here – please check out my home page!  My Art Therapy Journey – A window into the soul of an Abstract Artist through art therapy and storytelling…by Karen Robinson

Art Therapy Group Session 1 of 5 for 2015 – “A Tree of Treasured Memories…” by Karen Robinson

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INTRODUCTION

My art therapy journey 2015  – has once again enabled me to participant in another art therapy group.  This group is larger than our previous 2014 group and is especially for those who are carers for another in their lives.  It is facilitated by a very experienced Art Therapist and a co-facilitator.  They assist participants to express themselves through art in a safe, secure and supportive environment.  It also gives participants, an opportunity to meet new people with whom they learn to share thoughts, emotions and life experiences with, in an imaginative and creative way.  The art work produced during an art therapy session, is not and will not be, works of art, as little time and energy is invested in the creative process.  But what is important to understand and appreciate, is that it is, about the process of self exploration through art therapy.

 

GETTING TO KNOW EACH OTHER

Getting the participants to know each other – was the group’s Art Therapist’s primary goal at this first session.  It involved participating in a number of simple exercises which helped each of us, to get to know one another, a little better.  For some, we already knew of each other through our first art therapy group in 2014 and for others, it involved getting to know the whole group for the first time.  Following our first session will be another 5 sessions, where we will have plenty of opportunity to broaden our knowledge of each other and of ourselves even further.

 

A TREE OF TREASURED MEMORIES

One of our art therapy exercises involved a visualisation process.  We were asked to close our eyes and visualise a place of beauty, a place we feel safe in, a place we would enjoy being within.  I found it easy to reach my ‘mind place’ as I like to call it, being the beach with stretches of golden sand, a deep blue sea with crashing waves creeping up onto the shoreline, a pretty, light blue sky that seem to go on forever, a warm sun filling my soul with a sense of joy and a soft sea breeze caressing my skin.  On reaching this ‘mind place’ we were then asked to find a ‘magic seed’.  I found myself picking up a seed pod near a rock pool and holding in my hand as I examined its texture, shape and colour.  We were then asked to plant it and visualise what it had grown into.  After a few moments of visualisation, we were then asked to open our eyes and draw/paint/crayon an art work that showed what our ‘magic seed’ had grown into.

Once we had completed our art work about what our ‘magic seed’ had grown into, we each took turns to explain it to the group; and only as much as we were comfortable in revealing.  It was very interesting and amazing how serious the participants had involved themselves in this visualisation process.

 

No. 1 of 3 ArtTherapy Group Session 1 'Tree of Treasured Memories' created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb 2015 NB All images are protected by copyright..JPG

No. 1 of 3 Art Therapy Group Session 1 ‘Tree of Treasured Memories’ created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb 2015 NB All images are protected by copyright..JPG

 

For me, my seed grew into ‘A  Tree of Treasured Memories’:-

“It was an imaginary tree with no leaves!  It held only pear, shaped droplets hanging from its branches, that once reached for and plucked, would take me to a treasured memory I held in my mind and in my heart.  I didn’t realise at that very moment of producing my ‘tree of treasured memories’ art work, that I would become very emotional.  I found myself working hard at trying to push back the tears, so as no one could see them. As we went around the table, with each person telling their story and showing their art work, I found myself becoming more and more tearful.  I held tight to my tears welling up in my eyes, so they wouldn’t fall. It was then that I realized, that my ‘tree of treasured memories’ was about, having a wish to be able to revisit memories of my son Ben, who had been killed in a single vehicle car crash in 2009.  Over the recent years, I had come to understand, how time spent with loved ones was a treasure.  I tragically had learned this through my loss and all that was left of my son now – were treasured memories.  I did manage to explain some of my tree of treasured memories art work, but it was difficult and I stopped short in order to hold back the pain in my heart, that was slowly seeping forward to the present moment.  No doubt there were others there on this day, that had difficulty in relaying their stories as well, but it was hard not to think about anything else other than – my treasured memories….”

Written by Karen Robinson

 

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL

No. 2 of 3 Art Therapy Group Session 1 ‘Pin Hole View of the World’ created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb 2015 NB All images are protected by copyright..JPG

 

Our next art therapy exercise involved getting a piece of paper and cutting a small hole out of it, in the centre, a hole big enough to peer through.  We were then instructed to hold the paper up to our eye and look through it and then look for something ‘beautiful’ to focus on.  The room we occupied had beautiful,ornate architraves.  I used those images to create the above sketch.

 

WHAT I NEED NOW

No. 3 of 3 ArtTherapy Group Session 1 'What I Need Now!' created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb 2015 NB All images are protected by copyright.JPG

No. 3 of 3 ArtTherapy Group Session 1 ‘What I Need Now!’ created by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson Feb 2015 NB All images are protected by copyright.JPG

 

The last art therapy exercise for the day, involved choosing a card from a set of cards.  On one side of the card was an image, and on the other side of the card, were a set of words.  Using the card as inspiration, we were asked to create an art work that reflected  ‘what we need now’.  My chosen card and its accompanying words as stated below, inspired my crayon art work above.

“We will call deep into the past to all our ancestors and they will come because they have to.  Because…without us they do not exist and without them we do not exist…Boorndawan Willam Aboriginal Healing Service Cards”

 

During my sharing of my art work, I explained that what I needed now and look for, is joy in my life.  I very much look for actions that tick the happy box in order to fulfill that desire.  So there are lots of colourful shapes in my art work which is representative of having lots of avenues of finding joy in everyday life.

 

CONCLUSION

I must say, I found it difficult to go forward with the rest of the session after the visualisation process exercise, where I created my art work and story of  ‘a tree of treasured memories’.  Sometimes during art for therapy, I have found and still do find the process to be very challenging, difficult and confronting.  Thankfully our co-facilitator had organised for the whole group to have lunch together after this session. This helped wash away any sadness I was feeling and I left in a good frame of mind; strong enough again to go back to working on actions that tick the happy box!…

 

NB:  For the purposes of this weblog series “Art Therapy Group 2015”, I will not be mentioning any names or personal details of participants or even the name of the organisation that runs the sessions.  Individuals have the right to privacy, so it will only be about my own experience – and broad statements about each particular session.  I hope you will understand.

 

Whilst you are here – please check out my home page!  My Art Therapy Journey – A window into the soul of an Abstract Artist through art therapy and storytelling…by Karen Robinson

I Do Art Discussion No. 16 – “Piece of Mind” by Karen Robinson

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INTRODUCTION

Since the commencement of my weblog April 2014, I have been periodically blogging about certain art works within my art portfolio.  Since 2008, the act of painting has proved to be a very important process I have used for myself, as a form of therapy whilst caring for my husband during 2008/2009 when he was receiving and recovering from chemotherapy; and during my grieving process for the loss of my son in 2009.  Five years plus onwards, painting, along with my creative writing endeavours, continues to be an important part of my well-being. For me as the painter, the painting story is just as important as the art work itself, as it helps the viewer of my art work be able to make an informed connection.  And through this connection, I also hope it will help give the viewer something meaningful to think about – long after viewing the art work its self…

 

Painting No. 3 – Title “Piece of Mind” Feb 2008 – by Abstract Artist: Karen Robinson NB: All images are protected by copyright laws!

 

PAINTING DETAILS:  Painting No. 3 – Title “Piece of Mind” Acrylic on Canvas Feb 08  – 60cms Length x 50cms Wide x 1cm Deep by Abstract Artist Karen Robinson

 

PAINTING PROCESS

At the commencement of my painting journey in 2008,  I had purchased some very cheap canvases from the local market along with some inexpensive paints and brushes.  I was still learning about the whole process of painting and it was not until a very kind person in an art gallery I was visiting once, opposite the market, had told me that I really should invest in good canvases, paints and brushes.  It was after receiving this advice that I promptly went about researching and purchasing quality archival art products.

This painting above which I called  “Piece of Mind” was the third painting I had ever done as an adult. It is small in size, but over time I progressed to larger size canvases as my confidence and experience increased.  During the painting of this painting, I found that in order to gain a good coverage of paint, I had to paint each section 3 to 4 times.  This was due to the poor quality paint and canvas I was using at the time and it was the only way I could get the colours to pop.  I then finished off the painting with a layer of clear vanish to help the colours standout even more as well as helping to protect the canvas overall.

 

PAINTING STORY

The inspiration for this painting came from a moment I was looking back over my life and thinking about Belgravia where I held my last place of full-time employment.  Unbeknown to me it became the last time I embarked on work that I considered part of my career path.  I remember about how difficult it was and how much work related stress I had endured.  The demands of being a wife and being up two children also weighted heavily on my mind.  There were times I felt I was not making the grade in either arena. The demands of the position whilst very challenging and at times with the travel exciting, became a place where I felt like I was drowning and the only way out was to resign.  It took me over 3 months to make that final decision to take that dramatic step and hand in my resignation.  I have not regretted my decision to date and as it turned out it has been the best decision I could have made.  12 months on I was to face the biggest challenges in my life being my husband’s diagnoses of cancer 2008 and the death of my son in 2009.  It took all my strength as a human being to weather those times and art and creative writing became my way of staying sane.  Below is what I had originally written about the above painting, back in 2008:

“A jigsaw of a mind in thought! During my time at Belgravia, much was going on in my mind. Many tasks to complete, many goals to achieve, many new experiences to survive, enjoy and stress over. Many budgets to
reach, many meetings to attend, many flights to catch, many miles to travel. A very exciting and stressful but personally rewarding time in my life.”

NB:  Belgravia was my last place of full-time employment and unbeknown to me it became the last time I embarked on work that I considered part of my career path.

 

CONCLUSION

The painting features lots of pieces which was indicative of how I felt when working at Belgravia.  There was just so many demands of myself; demands from upper management but also demands I had placed upon myself within my family life.  The title of the painting is a play on words.  Rather than calling it  a ‘peace of mind’ which work was not, I called it ‘piece of mind’.  I found myself during this period of my life desperately looking for ‘peace of mind’ which, at last I have finally found.  This ‘peace of mind’ so to speak, is being sustained through my art and creative writing processes.

 

NB:  To view my Abstract Painting Gallery, please click here. Whilst you are here – please check out my home page! 

My Art Therapy Journey – A window into the soul of an Abstract Artist through art therapy and storytelling…by Karen Robinson – Abstract Artist/Blogger/Writer/Photo-taker

Creative Writing Group Session 4 of 6 – “A Time to Remember…”

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No. 1 Creative Writing Session 4 'A Time to Remember' Acrylic Paint A3 HW Paper by Karen Robinson Nov 2014 NB All images protected by copyright law.JPG

No. 1 Creative Writing Session 4 ‘A Time to Remember’ Acrylic Paint A3 HW Paper by Karen Robinson Nov 2014 NB All images protected by copyright law.JPG

INTRODUCTION

As creative writing participants, we are now just past mid way through our journey within this group.  It has been an interesting process so far – learning about what sort of writers each of us are and how much we differ in our writing approaches.  What has been most interesting, is hearing each other’s writing voices through the sharing of our stories each week.

THE CREATIVE WRITING HOMEWORK

For our last week’s homework creative writing piece, we were asked to write about ‘words that have helped ourselves get through something‘. After some reflection, I wrote about the words I found to help me through my greatest loss – the death of my son Ben.  I called it  ‘A Time to Remember’.

Title:  A Time to Remember...

“There was a time in my life, where there were no words that could help me after the loss of my son Ben, who was killed in a single vehicle car crash on the 5th November 2009, at the age of 25. I found myself searching for some way to be able to want to move forward, to find meaning and purpose in my life, to find some small measure of joy in every day.

No. 19 Creative Writing Session 3 - 'A Time to Remember' Ben James Robinson 16.11.1983 - 5.11.2009 Photo taken by Karen Robinson NB all images are protected.jpg

No. 19 Creative Writing Session 3 – ‘A Time to Remember’ Ben James Robinson 16.11.1983 – 5.11.2009 Photo taken by Karen Robinson NB all images are protected by copyright laws.jpg

In early 2010, I had decided to do volunteer speaking with an organisation that uses volunteer speakers, to tell their family’s road trauma story to repeat road traffic offenders, in the hope that by hearing the volunteer speaker’s personal story, their words, would help these drivers to rethink about their risky driver behaviour.

It was at this time, I wrote my family’s road trauma story. I remember getting started and setting out to put my thoughts into words, in preparation of my ‘Road Trauma Awareness’ presentation to come. It was a very painful process, deeply personal, confronting, distressing, physically draining and mentally both challenging and depressing. I found myself swallowed up in tears and full of sorrow. Over time – I wrote, rewrote and rewrote again, as it became a sort of dialogue with me and the memory of my son; a way to look over how and why he had been killed. It also became a defining reality that Ben, my son was not ever going to return, that his death was the end of my real life relationship with him as his mother. My heart was broken and I didn’t know how I was going to fix it…

Most months, since then, I tell my family’s road trauma story. I read these precious words about his life, the cause of his death, his memory – to other mothers’ sons, hoping that by sharing my words, sharing my family’s story will save lives and reduce serious injury caused by road trauma; caused by risky driver behaviour…

It has been five years now, since Ben’s death, and it was on the 5th November this month, another anniversary of his death, that my husband, my daughter and I visited Fawkner Memorial Park, where Ben’s ashes have been placed. Each year, I look at his plague where our carefully chosen words read –

“In loving memory of Ben James Robinson
16th November 1983 – 5th November 2009
Loved Son of Mark and Karen Robinson
Loved brother of Kelly Robinson
Loved Grandson, Nephew, Cousin and Friend
Taken too soon…our beautiful boy Ben…forever in our hearts…forever remembered…forever missed…”

No. 1 Creative Writing Session 3 - 'A time to Remember' Photographed by Karen Robinson NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG

No. 1 Creative Writing Session 3 – ‘A time to Remember’ Photographed by Karen Robinson NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG

Fawkner Memorial Park is beautiful at this time of the year with all its carefully manicured roses standing at attention; almost as if it was a respectful recognition of our presence.. Their scented, showy blooms and wonderful array of colour is a source of comfort to us. Whilst the day is a sad and difficult day, it has become a day we make this pilgrimage to visit Ben’s memorial within this strangely beautiful scene.  A brilliant blue sky hangs over us, like a protective blanket; the sun gently warms our bodies as we take some time out to think about our Ben.  It was his birth day on Sunday, the 16th of this month. He would have been… 31…”

Written 25/11/2014 by Karen Robinson in loving memory of Ben…my son 16th November 1983 – 5th November 2009 – ‘Copyright’ Protected

 

CREATIVE WRITING INSPIRING PHOTO-TAKING

I am an avid photo-taker and have realised over many years now, that photo-taking has given me an opportunity to record important family events and moments that other wise would be lost in my memory archives, as I age.  Taking photos ensures I have a picture story to forward onto my family’s future generations.  There have been many, many happy moments captured in this manner.  So it is not a surprise that I would also capture moments my family share, when we do our yearly pilgrimage to Fawkner Memorial Park; to take moments out to think about our Ben.

No. 8 Creative Writing Session 3 – ‘A time to Remember’ Photographed by Karen Robinson NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG
No. 5 Creative Writing Session 3 – ‘A time to Remember’ Photographed by Karen Robinson NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG
No. 3 Creative Writing Session 3 – ‘A time to Remember’ Photographed by Karen Robinson NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG
No. 10 Creative Writing Session 3 – ‘A time to Remember’ Photographed by Karen Robinson NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG
No. 12 Creative Writing Session 3 – ‘A time to Remember’ Photographed by Karen Robinson NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG
No. 16 Creative Writing Session 3 – ‘A time to Remember’ Photographed by Karen Robinson NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG
No. 13 Creative Writing Session 3 – ‘A time to Remember’ Photographed by Karen Robinson NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG
No. 2 Creative Writing Session 3 – ‘A time to Remember’ Photographed by Karen Robinson NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG
No. 15 Creative Writing Session 3 – ‘A time to Remember’ Photographed by Karen Robinson NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG
No. 14 Creative Writing Session 3 – ‘A time to Remember’ Photographed by Karen Robinson NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG
No. 9 Creative Writing Session 3 – ‘A time to Remember’ Photographed by Karen Robinson NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG
No. 6 Creative Writing Session 3 – ‘A time to Remember’ Photographed by Karen Robinson NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG
No. 4 Creative Writing Session 3 – ‘A time to Remember’ Photographed by Karen Robinson NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG
No. 18 Creative Writing Session 3 – ‘A time to Remember’ Photographed by Karen Robinson NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG
No. 7 Creative Writing Session 3 – ‘A time to Remember’ Photographed by Karen Robinson NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG
No. 17 Creative Writing Session 3 – ‘A time to Remember’ Photographed by Karen Robinson NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG
No. 11 Creative Writing Session 3 – ‘A time to Remember’ Photographed by Karen Robinson NB All images are protected by copyright laws.JPG

CREATIVE WRITING INSPIRING ART!

Again I wanted to use my creative writing piece to inspire an art work and is featured below titled ‘A Time to Remember’. They are not ‘master pieces’ but are an important part of a therapeutic process that I enjoy and helps complete my art for therapy journey after each creative writing group session.

No.7 Creative Writing Session 4 ‘A Time to Remember’ Acrylic Paint A3 HW Paper by Karen Robinson Nov 2014 NB All images protected by copyright law.JPG
No.9 Creative Writing Session 4 ‘A Time to Remember’ Acrylic Paint A3 HW Paper by Karen Robinson Nov 2014 NB All images protected by copyright law.JPG
No. 5 Creative Writing Session 4 ‘A Time to Remember’ Acrylic Paint A3 HW Paper by Karen Robinson Nov 2014 NB All images protected by copyright law.JPG
No. 3 Creative Writing Session 4 ‘A Time to Remember’ Acrylic Paint A3 HW Paper by Karen Robinson Nov 2014 NB All images protected by copyright law.JPG
No. 1 Creative Writing Session 4 ‘A Time to Remember’ Acrylic Paint A3 HW Paper by Karen Robinson Nov 2014 NB All images protected by copyright law.JPG
No.8 Creative Writing Session 4 ‘A Time to Remember’ Acrylic Paint A3 HW Paper by Karen Robinson Nov 2014 NB All images protected by copyright law.JPG
No.6 Creative Writing Session 4 ‘A Time to Remember’ Acrylic Paint A3 HW Paper by Karen Robinson Nov 2014 NB All images protected by copyright law.JPG
No. 4 Creative Writing Session 4 ‘A Time to Remember’ Acrylic Paint A3 HW Paper by Karen Robinson Nov 2014 NB All images protected by copyright law.JPG
No. 2 Creative Writing Session 4 ‘A Time to Remember’ Acrylic Paint A3 HW Paper by Karen Robinson Nov 2014 NB All images protected by copyright law.JPG

CONCLUSION

Thank you for joining me on this Creative Writing Group Session Journey!  Please click on the below links to view Nos. 1,2 & 3 Creative Writing Group Sessions:

NB:  For the purposes of this weblog series “Creative Writing Group”, I will not be mentioning any names or personal details of participants or even the name of the organisation that runs the sessions.  Individuals have the right to privacy, so it will only be about my own experience – and broad statements about each particular session.  I hope you will understand.

Whilst you are here – please check out my home page!  My Art Therapy Journey – A window into the soul of an Abstract Artist through art therapy and storytelling…by Karen Robinson

I Do Art Discussion No. 15 – “Road to a New Life…”

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INTRODUCTION

My ‘art as therapy’ journey has allowed me to explore ways of being able to endear feelings, thoughts and emotions about family members dearest to me into my abstract paintings.  During 2010, I had painted a series of paintings which were done with my darling dear daughter in mind.  In the year before, 2009 Nov 5 her brother, my son had been killed in a single vehicle car crash.  Much of my paintings over this period of time had been about the loss of my son, about my grief and despair.  It was hard to think about anything else at that time in our family lives.

During 2009/2010 my daughter and her then partner, now husband were building their new home; building a new life for themselves to share together.  I decided to do a series of paintings for my daughter; below is the first in this series.  I needed to paint with joy in my heart instead of grief and despair.  Painting for my daughter was a joyful experience and helped me to look forward into the future.  Another example how ‘art as therapy’ helped me in my journey.

 

Painting No. 47A – Title “Road to a New Life” Apr/June 2010 – by Abstract Artist: Karen Robinson All images are protected by copyright laws!
Painting No. 47B – Title “Road to a New Life” Apr/June 2010 – by Abstract Artist: Karen Robinson All images are protected by copyright laws!

PAINTINGS No. 47A & 47B – Title “Road to a New Life” Acrylic on Canvas  April/June 2010  90cms Length x 50cms Wide x 3cms Deep each

 

PAINTING STORY

This painting represents the new estate where my daughter and her now husband were building their new home, which has since been completed. The linings on the painting are the estate roads, leading up and into where they live.  Like a lot of new estates to begin with, there is not much to see except new roads and bare plots of land awaiting home constructions. Their new home was very symbolic of new beginnings together as a couple.  They had worked very had at their work and careers; worked hard at saving money and worked through very difficult times during the process of building their home.  Our daughter during these times had to deal with the knowledge her father had cancer and would need to have chemotherapy and thankfully now, in 2014 – is in full remission.  She also had to deal with the sudden and tragic death of her brother.  During this period of time she had also been training and studying. It is a real credit to her that she was able to find the strength and courage to keep herself on track over the these very difficult years.  We are now in 2014 and both my daughter and her husband have done well for themselves – I am so proud and pleased for them…

 

ABOUT THE COLOURS

The Matisse Paint colours I chose to use for this painting, were heavily influenced by what I understand to be some of my daughter’s most favourite colours.  The earthy colours are a direct link to the colour of bare, just freshly turned dark rick soil, being the plots of land awaiting housing construction.  The grey representing newly made roads leading into the new estate.  The blue is one of my daughter’s favourites and it also is representative of the expansive beautiful, big blue sky that can be seen within the region where the estate is being established – just outside of Melbourne, Victoria – Australia.  The fine bands of silver and gold running across the paintings are representative of the wealth of goodness I find in my daughter…in her soul and heart.

 

CONCLUSION

Painting for my daughter at this particular period of time in my life 2010 was an important moment.  I was looking to find hope and a way to find joy again in life.  My daughter became this beacon of light and as it should be…thank you my darling, dear daughter….

 

NB:  To view my Abstract Painting Gallery, please click here. Whilst you are here – please check out my home page! 

My Art Therapy Journey – A window into the soul of an Abstract Artist through art therapy and storytelling…by Karen Robinson – Abstract Artist/Blogger/Writer/Photo-taker

What is ART? – It enriches your soul and gets you thinking!

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What is ART?  Well for me, it is a means of being able to communicate with myself and with others, emotions, feelings and thoughts.  It is a voice that can reach into our hearts and souls; it can reach out across oceans.  Art can convey powerful messages, points of view, challenge our beliefs and attitudes; and it can change the way we think.  It can take us back in time and also it can transport us into the future. Art can invite us into unknown magical worlds of others and it can, at times be like a ‘slap in the face’ by being troubling and confronting.

TAC "Picture This" Exhibition 2010 at Geelong Gallery, Victoria - Australia. Featuring Painting No. 45B "The Death of Our Son Ben" by Abstract Artist: Karen Robinson (as photographed) NB: All images are protected by copyright laws!

TAC “Picture This” Exhibition 2010 at Geelong Gallery, Victoria – Australia. Featuring Painting No. 45B “The Death of Our Son Ben” by Abstract Artist: Karen Robinson (as photographed)
NB: All images are protected by copyright laws!

Art takes us on a journey and then returns us back to where we came from but on our return we are a little richer for the experience; whether a viewer of art or an artist.  This is what art is for me. Please find here in this video below titled “Using art for therapy” – myself talking about my own art for therapy journey.

 

When I firstly watched this other video following below “what is ART”, I was so impressed by the freshness of these artists’ take on what art is!  Each of their statements resonated with my own personal experience of what art has been and has become for me.  It was not until I got to delving into the details of the video further that I realized that these participants of said, are actually theatre artists and not painters.  I was surprised that what they had to say about “what is art?” from their perspective, as theatre artists, rang just as true for me, as an abstract painter; so much so that I felt it was a good summation to share!

These are their words about “what is ART?”….

“art is an agent of change”; “anything that highlights life”; “they know it’s an art form when it has a story – when it speaks to them”; “art is an expression of the soul”; “the product of the reaction to something you love”; “and passion”; “and anything in-between”; “it’s the highest form of language”; “it’s got to be honest”; “a vehicle for expressing your thoughts, your emotions”; “we can’t keep it, we need to share it”; “if it’s not shared – it’s just a work of a crazy person”; “for me art is important because it makes you think”; “I like the idea of creating something out of nothing”; “think about how to improve your own life and the lives of others”; “to have something in the world that exists that affects people”; “it is what allows us to feel”; “without it we are nothing more than robots”; “just rocks”; “if you don’t have art – you merely exist”; “art draws out the humanity”; “art elevates existence into something else”; “we are able to inspire and move people into action”; “it’s your way of sharing and giving back to the people”; “without art life would be boring”; “everyone should have some sense of creativity in their lives”; “it is not beautiful without art”; “if you have a point of view your are an artist”; “an artist is someone who sees things that no one else sees”; “with the mindset of moving the society forward”; “anyone could be an artist as long as you are honest”; “courageous”; “art makes you sensitive to things around you”; “to allow growth in our lives”; “a reflection of the beliefs and the desires”; “it pushes me to improve everyday”; “makes me appreciate all the little things”; and “art is everything”.

 

This video campaign, as shown below, is produced by Mayk Juat, Jake Macapagal, Pam Imperial and directed by Mayk Juat and the Cinematography by Nix Lanas. They state that it “aims to take a closer look on how the arts can be applicable to our lives” and is “expressed by those who live, breathe and LOVE it – the Filipino Artists” (What is ART – maARTe ako, 11 Jul 2011).

Spoken by Theatre Artists:- Robbie Guevara Actor/Director; Ana Abad Santos Actress; Carlos Canlas Actor/Singer; Stephanie Reese Actress/Singer; Joel Trinidad Actor/Playwright; Reuben Uy Theatre Actor; Bea Garcia Actress; Casisa Borromeo Actress; Jake Macapagal Actor; Jenny Jamora I’m a Human Being; Topper Fabregas Ma ART e ako; Pam Imperial Ma ART e ako; Raul Montesa Ma ART e ako; Astarte Abraham Ma ART e ako; Teresa Herrera Ma ART e ako; Kakki Teodoro Ma ART e ako; and JM Rodriguez.

Reference:
Juat. M., Macapagal. J., Imperial. P. (2011, July 11). What is ART? – maARTe ako. YouTube. Retrieved May 18, 2014 from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TjuV7SA6fj4

Whilst you are here – please check out my my home page!  I hope you will continue to join on my art therapy journey…Karen Robinson