Quote of The Week about Self Esteem

A Positive Self-Concept Enhances Joy

By Renee Phillips, The Artrepreneur Coach, co-juror of "Celebrate the Healing Power of ART"

As a life and career coach I discuss a lot about "success", which is something that only each of us can determine for ourselves. No one else can define this for us. To attain whatever state of being that comes with our version of "success" we first must have a positive self-concept.

After all, living with self-esteem means having the belief that we are competent and worthy of success and every positive thing that comes with it.

That is why I chose this inspiring quote for the week.

“You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection.” ~ Buddha

Have you ever noticed how easy it is to praise and encourage others in order for them to feel better about themselves? But, do we forget to do the same for ourselves? How often throughout the day do we stop and give ourselves the positive reinforcement we need to build our confidence muscles.

The more we grow our self-love and self-esteem, the more likely we are to be in a free state of self-expression. Therefore, the more creative and powerful we are apt to be in our life and work. And, the more freely we can give to others.

We do ourselves a favor when we are aware of self doubt and can eliminate the barriers of self defeat. We may notice that the more trust we have in ourselves and the universe the more abundance flows to us.

To grow in self-esteem is to expand our receptivity for happiness.

In my coaching practice I pay attention to words that reflect self-doubt and can turn their attitude around. When a client becomes aware and appreciative of their personal strengths and positive attributes what follows is the conviction that they are worthy of all that they desire. They are able to move forward with confidence and freedom and can accomplish any goal they set for themselves.

Learn about Renee's life and career coaching services.

Quote of the Week

Even Gauguin Had Doubts

By Renee Phillips, The Artrepreneur Coach, co-juror of "Celebrate the Healing Power of ART"

If you ever have doubts about your creative process and your work, remember, these words expressed by Paul Gauguin -- at one time or another in his life. Hopefully they will assure you.

What still concerns me the most is: am I on the right track, am I making progress, am I making mistakes in art? Such things as the materials, and care in the actual process of painting, and even of preparing the canvas, are the least important. They can always be fixed up, can't they? Whereas art -- oh, its a very awkward and a very awesome thing to go into deeply.

~ Paul Gauguin

This surprising quote is from page 99 of Artist to Artist: Inspiration & Advice from Artists Past & Present, compiled by Clint Brown. It is one of my favorite resources.

Eliminate Your Doubts within A Strong Support Group

We all have doubts occasionally. Discussing your self-doubts with other creative individuals can be a very valuable antidote for overcoming them. The more years I spend advising artists from different backgrounds, career levels and artistic expressions, the more I am convinced that having a strong artist support group is one of the best-kept secrets to a successful art career. The quality of camaraderie that an artist has with his or her peers separates the artists who climb the ladder of success with ease from those who frequently trip and fall.

Read more about this in my article "The Importance of Camaraderie among Artists: How to Launch an Artist Support Network" at
http://www.manhattanarts.com/readingroom/ezine/CareerBusiness/Renee_Camaraderie.htm

Art and Healing Quote of the Week

Artist as Healer ~ Two Processes from Single Source
Quote selected by Renee Phillips, co-juror of Manhattan Arts International Celebrate The Healing Power of ART

I found this wonderful quote by Rachel Naomi Remen, MD on The Arts and Healing Network at http://www.artheals.org 

Renee Phillips, "Spirals", detail, gold, silver and copper metallic pens on canvas, 12" x 12". I find "Doodling" to be very therapeutic and meditative. It is my peaceful, quiet time without mental chatter.

"At the deepest level, the creative process and the healing process arise from a single source. When you are an artist, you are a healer; a wordless trust of the same mystery is the foundation of your work and its integrity."
~ Rachel Naomi Remen, MD

Rachel Naomi Remen is one of the earliest pioneers in the mind/body holistic health movement. She was the first to recognize the role of the spirit in health and the recovery from illness. Remen is the author of the Kitchen Table Wisdom: Stories That Heal -- a New York Times bestseller.

Inspiration for The Healing Power of ART and ARTISTS

Artists as Shape Shifters ~ Bringing Hope to the World
Quote of the Week
Selected by Renee Phillips, co-juror of Celebrate The Healing Power of ART

Photograph taken by Renee Phillips at the Bronx Zoo.

"Artists are shape-shifters and in this there is a perennial, ferocious hope; the hope which transforms, which whispers of possibility, of vision, of change and radical healing.
Existing art about climate change has this characteristic, acknowledging the truth and severity of the issue but also affirming within it something of grace, seeing the starlight within the night.”
– Jay Griffiths, author of several books including A Love Letter from a Stray Moon, a fictionalized biography of Frida Kahlo

Whenever I come across a positive quote about the healing power of ART and the ARTISTS who create healing ART I am compelled to share it. Now that we have launched our call for artists for Celebrate The Healing Power of ART I will share them here. This quote by Jay Griffiths captures the very essence of the hope artists bring to the world.

Please share this with others. You are also invited to post your favorite quote here on this subject of the Healing Power of ART and the Power of ARTISTS to Heal.

To learn more about our juried online exhibition please visit http://www.manhattanarts.com/Gallery/Healing-Power-of-ART/index.htm

Museum of City of New York After School Programs

A Museum that Makes New York Proud
By Renee Phillips, The Artrepreneur Coach


Last night I attended a fundraising event organized by the Museum of City of New York. The purpose was to raise money for its Frederick A.O. Schwartz Children's Center. It was a silent auction of Stanley Kubrick's photographs.

This museum offers so much in the way of exhibitions plus programs.

As stated on its website "Participation in professional development events counts towards maintaining professional certification from the New York City Department of Education. The offerings support teachers as they work toward aligning curriculum and instructional priorities with Common Core State Standards demonstrated through College and Career Ready student performance tasks."

For more information about school and afterschool programs for students and teachers offered by this remarkable Museum visit www.mcny.org/education/Professional-Development.html

For a photo from this event last night visit http://reneephillips.blogspot.com/2012/02/raising-funds-for-museums-after-school.html

New Design for Celebrate The Healing Power of ART

Have You Noticed Our New Look?

At Manhattan Arts International, as we open our doors to accept entries for the 2012 Celebrate The Healing Power of ART online juried exhibition we have introduced a new look. Here it is!

We will be showcasing and actively publicizing the work of all artists selected for the online exhibition "Celebrate The Healing Power of ART" to a wide international community. Ongoing efforts will be made to promote the artists and introduce them to a wide audience of prospective buyers and art professionals.

This is Manhattan Arts International’s 7th "Celebrate The Healing Power of ART" competition. As a result of our previous exhibitions winning artists have received a tremendous amount of exposure and opportunities.

We Emphasize Quality

Most online galleries are referred to as 'supermarket' or 'mall' types of venues, where artists are crowded together among varying levels -- from amateur to advanced. Many artists complain that they are impersonal and overloaded with art images without any quality control.

On the Manhattan Arts International website we focus on quality and personalized relationships with the artists we select. We rely on a jury committee of established art professionals to help us in our selection.

We look forward to providing a much needed service for artists beginning with our call for Artists in the Celebrate The Healing Power of ART.

Please join us at http://www.manhattanarts.com

Our Healing Power of Art Exhibition

Please Join Us

Shown here is a painting by Martha Brouwer, one of the winners in the 6th "Celebrate The Healing Power of ART" exhibition.

We are pleased to announce our 7th "Celebrate The Healing Power of Art", an online group exhibition, April 10, 2012 - June 10, 2012.

The purpose of Celebrate The Healing Power of ART is to promote ART and all aspects of CREATIVITY and its vital importance to healing individuals and the planet.

WHAT WE BELIEVE

* The Healing Power of ART is undeniable.

* Art is a natural force that promotes heath and well-being for the creator as well as the viewer.

* When Artists create healing art they not only experience a healing process for themselves, their art has a healing impact on viewers, and the earth.

* Art has transformative powers to change a person’s outlook and the way they experience the world.

* Art can affect a person’s physiology impacting brain wave patterns and the nervous system.

* Art can alter the cells in the body and it has the power to promote healing.

* Art can strengthen a person’s immune system.

* Now, more than ever, we need to "Celebrate The Healing Power of ART".

For this year’s competition we are especially seeking a wide variety of Art in all styles and media that are uplifting, powerful and transformative. Expressions may be literal or abstract -- those of hope, liberation, unity, love, faith, transformation, recovery, joy, revelation, faith, abundance, empathy, soul, spirit, etc.

We invite you to share this journey with us.
Learn more http://www.manhattanarts.com/Gallery/Healing-Power-of-ART/index.htm

Any comments? Please post them here.

Positive Quotes to Inspire The Artist Within

Just because... sometimes we just need a little boost, an inspiring quote, a reminder of what we already know to be true about our inner strengths, about art, artists and creativity.

So here are some of my favorites... from my book Success Now! For Artists.  I hope you enjoy them.

"Embrace those big dreams that seem elusive and integrate them into your daily habits to make them tangible. What action could you take right Now! that would set your dream in motion? Create your master plan and plan your destiny!" ~ Renee Phillips

"Great minds have purposes; others simply have wishes."
~ Washington Irving

"The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes."
~ Marcel Proust

"Life is either a daring adventure or nothing." ~ Helen Keller

"Success should not be measured by external events – when you sell your first work, or have your first one-person show, or get a positive review by a critic, or when your work is collected by a museum. It should be a constant flame that glows steadily and triumphantly within you – originating from the knowledge that you create your destiny. You don’t need anyone – a dealer, an agent, an art critic or patron – to give you validation or approval. Success is yours NOW!"
~ Renee Phillips

"If art is to nourish the roots of our culture, society must set the artist free to follow his vision wherever it takes him… We must never forget that art is not a form of propaganda; it is a form of truth."
~ John F. Kennedy

My book Success Now! For Artists is one of the several parts in the Artrepreneur Success Package. Learn more.

Art Containing Social Issues

How Artists Communicate their Social Messages 
through Partnership and Publicity

By Renée Phillips, The Artrepreneur Coach

I wrote this article for Professional Artist magazine. A similar version will appear in the December 2011 issue. You can read the complete unabridged version of this article at http://www.manhattanarts.com

Amy Guidry: "In Our Veins"

Amy Guidry, The Wild West, acrylic on canvas, 30" x 24".

Many artists are extremely successful at expressing their beliefs about social issues through their art. You may recall my article in the April 2011 issue of Professional Artist magazine “When Creative Impulse Meets Social Consciousness.” However, many artists fall behind when it comes to getting the well-deserved attention for their art however socially valuable it may be.

As you will observe in this article, among the most successful artists are those who know how to communicate their messages through public relations efforts as well as partnerships with other individuals and organizations.

Amy Guidry www.amyguidry.com is an artist from Louisiana, who works in series, all of which deal with a range of social issues. She states, “I rely on my work to bring up issues, get people talking, questioning, and (hopefully) taking action. Currently my series ‘In Our Veins’ deals with environmental concerns through an almost apocalyptic narrative. This series explores the connections between all life forms and the cycle of life.”

First of all, Amy’s website is among the best artists’ sites I have seen, which is an integral component to communicating the significance of your art. It is clear she has concentrated on building an online presence. She also credits her exhibitions that have lead to getting her message out.

About Amy Guidry's work Deborah Norsworthy, Curator of the Heymann Historic Ceiling Tile Art Exhibit for the Children's Museum of Acadiana stated: "I felt, when I walked into that room that I was back at the Hirshhorn in Washington, D.C., or at the Museum of Modern Art. Her technical rendering, of course, is superb. But it's her vision, her conceptualization, that catapults her above the rest."

Read this article at http://www.manhattanarts.com/readingroom/ezine/CareerBusiness/Renee_Social-Issues.htm

The Healing Power of Camaraderie

An Artist Needs Strong Allies
By Renee Phillips, The Artrepreneur Coach

Camaraderie: Mutual trust and friendship among people who spend a lot of time together.

We know that Mary Cassatt spent most of her life in France and allied herself with the Impressionists Manet and Degas early in her career. Jean Arp could not have prospered without his connection with the Blaue Reiter in Munich and various avant-garde groups in Paris, including the surrealists, and the Dadaists in Zürich.

Where would a military group be without a sense of camaraderie? I can assure you the death toll would be much higher. Can you imagine a house being built without the camaraderie among the builders and carpenters? Have you ever wondered why congress fails to get more accomplished? Their sense of camaraderie may be lacking or clouded by an ambitious “me” attitude.

Becoming a successful, prosperous and fulfilled creative individual is a rewarding journey when you have either another person or a group in which each one helps the others. Whether your collaboration with others is one other person or in a group the benefits are tremendous.

Read this article "The Power of People: Hunt, Farm and Feed Your Relationships" http://www.manhattanarts.com/readingroom/ezine/CareerBusiness/Renee_Relationships.htm

Mirror of the Buddha Exhibition at the Rubin Museum

Early Portraits from Tibet

This exhibition, curated by David Jackson and Christian Luczanits, will take place at the Rubin Museum of Art, http://rmanyc.org, 150 West 17 Street, New York, NY, October 21, 2011 - March 5, 2012.

Taklungthangpa Chenpo with His Lineage and Manifestations (detail); Eastern Tibet; early 14th century; Distemper on cotton; Private Collection.

In early Tibetan painted portraits, founding masters of important Buddhist schools were often represented as holy personages. Using artistic conventions developed in India, Tibetan artists expressed the Buddhist ideals embodied in a particular person, exalting their human subjects to the level of buddhas.

Mirror of the Buddha will present exquisite examples of these portraits, painted primarily in the eastern India-inspired Sharri style. Though the Sharri tradition spread from India to many parts of Asia, the style's classic Indian forms, delicate colors, and intricate decorative details were emulated most faithfully by Tibetans and enjoyed particular popularity in Tibet from the 12th to 14th century.

Marking the third in a series of exhibitions that explores important Tibetan painting styles, Mirror of the Buddha will clarify some of the confusion and correct misidentifications previously posited by Western scholars. It will also analyze inscriptions and lineages, which are often overlooked yet of critical importance, as tools for dating these works of art.

What do such ancient paintings mean to us today? According to Donald Rubin, co-founder and co-chair of the board of the Rubin Museum, “When we look at the portraits of teachers presented in the exhibition, we feel that we know them because of the human features depicted -- balding heads, peculiar facial hair, or protruding teeth. They look like people we might have met just yesterday. And in feeling that connection, we receive the inspiration they offer us -- great saints all of them -- reaching across time and space.” Chief Curator Jan Van Alphen added, “David Jackson fully explores this notion of guru worship and its artistic outcomes, noting the conflicting tendencies present in such paintings—depicting the idealized saint and the recognizable human teacher at the same time.”

Mirror of the Buddha will be complemented by a full-color catalog rich with new scholarship, by curator David Jackson.

Create Your Own Mandala Sanctuary

Gold, Silver and Cooper Leaf Pens and Mandalas Offer Peaceful Glow

Mandala represents wholeness which can also symbolize health and healing. According to Wikipedia, Mandala is a Sanskrit word that means "circle". In the Hindu and Buddhist religious traditions their sacred art often takes a mandala form. Mandalas are commonly used by tantric Buddhists as an aid to meditation. More specifically, a Buddhist mandala is envisaged as a "sacred space," a "Pure Buddha Realm,"and also as an abode of fully realized beings or deities.

Inspired by circles, I created these three small works of art using Gold, Silver and Cooper leaf pens on 12" x 12" x 2" gallery canvas. In person these pieces glow brilliantly from the silver, gold, and copper metallic markers. They are hung above the Buddha sculpture which creates a peaceful focal point and a small sanctuary. A restful place for the mind and soul, in a city space.  Guests have commented on how tranquil these paintings make them feel.

It's amazing what you can do with some restful time, leaf pens and a little doodling. Try it!

Shamanic Illuminations at ACA Galleries, NYC

ACA Galleries will present Shamanic Illuminations: The Art of Pablo Amaringo, Alex Grey and Mieshiel from September 15 through October 22, 2011. There will be a Reception and Book Signing: Thursday, September 15 from 5 to 8pm and a Gallery Talk: Thursday, September 22 from 5 to 8pm. The Talk begins at 7pm.

Pablo Amaringo (1938-2009) was born in Peru. At the age of 10 he took ayahuasca--a visionary brew used in shamanism. A severe heart illness -and the magical cure via ayahuasca-led Amaringo toward the life of a shaman. Amaringo was the founder of the Usko Ayar School of Painting in Pucallpa, a school dedicated to teaching art along with the rich botanical diversity of the jungle. In 1992 he received the Global 500 award from the UN Environmental Program.

Read more: http://art.broadwayworld.com/article/ACA-Galleries-Presents-Shamanic-Illuminations-915-1022-20110815#ixzz1VCEFwKiV

About ACA Galleries, New York, NY
ACA Galleries was founded in 1932 by Herman Baron. Stuart Davis (the pioneering modernist), Yasuo Kuniyoshi (the well-known Japanese-American artist) and Adolf Dehn were among the original founders.

ACA first opened on Madison Avenue in New York City on August 16, 1932 in the depths of the Great Depression. At this time there were only thirty galleries in New York City and Edith Halpert’s Downtown Gallery and Alfred Stieglitz’s An American Place were the only other galleries dedicated to exhibiting American Art. Even museums cast a blind eye to American painters and sculptors. The art world at this time consisted of Old Master dealers and galleries showing the great artistic currents of Europe.

The gallery is currently located at 529 West 20th Street, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10011.

Learn more at http://www.acagalleries.com

This Week's Art and Healing Resources

Celebrate The Healing Power of Art Salutes These Institutions/ Organizations

Every week we will announce different groups and events that come to our attention. Please visit often and spread the word about these resources.

UCLA Arts and Healing http://uclartsandhealing.net/
The UCLA Arts and Healing program is designed, "To facilitate the use of arts-based tools for mind-body healing in the community as a vehicle for empowerment and transformation. Listed among its strategies: “Affordable, experiential education to enable people to experience the healing power of the arts with an added therapeutic dimension. The process of creative expression reveals unconscious information that can facilitate insight, emotional and physical release, empathy and group support. Use of the arts can also lead to cognitive and physical development as well.”

They also provide, “Networking with health care professionals, mental health professionals, educators, community workers, caregivers, and artists as well as the general public.”

$500,000 Art budget for Orange Regional Medical Center's Pediatric Playroom

The new Orange Regional opened on August 5, 2011. $500,000 was spent on art in various mediums. Pieces of fine art were created by both locally and internationally known artists. Sarah Thompson, art curator for Orange Regional said,"Our goal in this playroom was to try to bring the outside in, to make it enjoyable as well as healing. Here (the children) can play, have fun, and get lost in their own little world built from their imagination."

Thompson spent the past two and a half years searching for pieces to soften the feel of the hospital, as well as tie in recognizable images, such as landscapes of the region, that patients and visitors can relate to and which put them more at ease. Thompson plans to continue and grow the hospital's art program. She is working with the Wallkill River School and the Orange County Arts Council to host bimonthly art shows in the public corridor near the hospital's new cafeteria to showcase works by local artists. Read more at http://www.recordonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110815/BIZ/108150310

Discovery Arts http://www.discoveryarts.org/
This 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that brings the healing power of the arts to children with cancer, serious blood disorders and life threatening illness while they are in the hospital receiving treatment. Its "Arts Adventures" activities bring smiles, laughter, comfort and hope to these often forgotten children. Discovery Arts helps these children step outside the confines of their illness and into the world of creativity and imagination. Children with cancer have enormous emotional needs, they need a safe place to express their feelings, they need relief from the pain and chaos of critical treatments and they desperately need creativity, fun and as much normalcy as possible."

University of Arizona Art Show http://opa.ahsc.arizona.edu/newsroom/news/2011/%E2%80%9Cstrong-minds-healing-hands-compassionate-hearts%E2%80%9D-art-show-aug-22-sept-9-and-fund
“Strong Minds, Healing Hands, Compassionate Hearts” – an art show, Aug. 22-Sept. 9, with a Fundraising Dinner/Auction, Sept. 9. This exhibition will celebrate more than 40 years of supporting the development of health-care professionals by the Office of Outreach and Multicultural Affairs (OMA) at the University of Arizona College of Medicine in Tucson and Phoenix. The events are presented by the OMA Community Advisory Board.

The UA plays a vital role in preparing doctors, nurses, pharmacists and other health-care professionals to meet the needs of our community and more.

The Reiki Digest: The Reiki focus group concludes, the art show opens, the mandala is unveiled, and a special article by the artist

View this wonderful online art exhibition organized by Beth Lowell, artist and managing editor of The Reiki Digest.

The exhibition features art work by Reiki practitioners and was inspired by Pam Turczyn who is one of the artists featured in our book Vision, Passion & Purpose: Artists as World Changers.

For this show Pam asked "Does art aid the healing process?" This exhibition asks "Does Reiki aid the art process?"

View it now!
The Reiki Digest: The Reiki focus group concludes, the art show opens, the mandala is unveiled, and a special article by the artist

Artful Random Acts of Kindness

Ways to Be A Happier Artist!
By Renee Phillips, The Artrepreneur Coach

In his book 'Power of Intention' Dr. Wayne Dyer explains that people who practice random acts of kindness, the people who receive them, and even those who obverve this process receive a rush of serotonin flowing in their bodies.

Yes, kindness can be considered a happiness drug that also will help your immune system. The release of endorphins makes people happy and the effects can be long lasting.

As an artist you can perform small gestures that will make a big difference in another person's life. Here are a few Artful Random Acts of Kindness. They require just a few minutes to do and most of them are free.

1. Post a link to another artist's website with words of praise on your facebook page.

2. Write a recommendation for another art professional you know on LinkedIn.

3. Give away some books you've read (and eliminate some clutter on your bookshelf!)

4. Buy a dual membership at a museum and share it with a fellow art lover.

5. Call a gallery on your artist friend's behalf and recommend they seriously consider your friend's work.

6. Share a link to an art and business article with a friend who could use some helpful advice. Start here with this blog or the Manhattan Arts International Reading Room at http://www.manhattanarts.com

7. Share this resource with an artist friend:  The International Museum of Women http://imow.org/home/index is accepting submissions from artists, filmmakers, photographers, musicians, writers of any media type for its new online exhibition, “Your Voices: On Motherhood”.



If you have any good suggestions for artful random acts of kindness please post them here!

The Healing Power of Art Resources

Vision, Passion & Purpose: Artists as World Changers

This book includes more than 100 artists who are positive, proactive, and active in their community.

It is a collection of stories from artists who have come to my attention since I started curating "The Healing Power of Art" exhibitions beginning in 2002.

These Artists have either started programs for social change, have turned tragedy to triumph, are helping others heal through art programs, are involved with arts advocacy, arts leadership, charitable deeds, and so much more!

The book also contains a Resource Section with a wealth of information including:

The Arts & Healing Network 
The Arts & Healing Network www.artheals.org was founded by Marion Weber, artist and philanthropist, in 1997. It is an online resource celebrating the connection between art and healing, serving as an international resource for anyone interested in the healing potential of art, particularly artists, health care practitioners, and those challenged by illness. The site includes more than a thousand links to various art and healing projects, artists, funding options, and other resources, including book reviews and interviews with leaders in the field of art and healing. Its site produces an online publication, a podcast series, and an annual award.

The Society for the Arts in Healthcare
SAH, www.thesah.org, is a non-profit 501(c)3 corporation in Washington, DC. Founded in 1991, the Society for the Arts in Healthcare is dedicated to advancing arts as integral to healthcare. The Society's membership includes over 1,700 professionals, students, and organizations in the arts, humanities, and medicine. Its Artist Registry features more than 100 artists and connects an international network of artists, art consumers, and curators through documentation and showcasing of artistic excellence in healthcare.

Arts for Healing
Arts for Healing, www.artsforhealing.org/, is a unique, nurturing community-based center that helps people with learning and developmental disabilities improve the quality of their lives through music and creative arts therapy.

Foundation For Art & Healing
The mission of the Foundation For Art & Healing, http://www.artandhealing.org founded by Dr. Jeremy Nobel, MD, MPH, is to use its position as a “bridge” to create and expand general awareness about art and healing, to bring forward through research and related explorations criti-cal knowledge about art and healing and the relationship between them, and to help make this knowledge available at the individual and community level.

Healing Farms
Healing Farms Retreat and Integrated Recovery Services Inc. aka Healing Farms,  http://healingfarms.org,  is a non profit corporation founded by Andre L. Beaudoin in August of 2007 and sanctioned by the IRS as a 501(c)3 Public Charity. Our purpose is to provide the combined power of all healing practices and modalities to anyone who needs them.

To read more about the book visit http://bit.ly/artistsinspire

The Reiki Digest: Call for entries! the Reiki Digest's first online art show: Reiki, Healing and Art

Opportunity for Artists who practice Reiki
The Reiki Digest: Call for entries! the Reiki Digest's first online art show: Reiki, Healing and Art

I learned about this wonderful opportunity for Artists who are also Reiki practitioners from artist Pamela Turczyn

P.C. Turczyn, Infinite Surrender. Artwork is copyright protected by the artist. All rights reserved. Do not copy image without the artist's permission. To view more of P.C.'s work visit http://www.pcturczyn.com.


Thank you Pamela!

Overcoming Grief through Art

Excerpts from Vision, Passion & Purpose
Artists as World Changers

Upcoming book by Renee Phillips, The Artrepreneur Coach

Unresolved grief can lead to a host of psychological and medical problems. Depression, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts and physical ailments have found their roots in repressed feelings of loss, tragedy and bereavement.

Art and other expressive therapies are increasingly used in grief counseling. Art therapy, whether as a group activity or on an individual basis, provides a helpful method of giving expression to feelings that may be otherwise difficult to communicate and resolve.

Art therapy is practiced by trained specialists. There are dozens of artists who have chosen this as a profession. There are many others who either discover or intentionally choose to use Art in their own healing process.

In the upcoming book Vision, Passion & Purpose dozens of artists share stories about how Art has transformed their lives and the lives of others suffering from loss.

Nancy Christy-Moore
Overcoming Loss and Honoring A Loved One

Nancy Christy-Moore, www.nchristy.com, "Spirits Soaring", mixed watermedia on paper, 11" x 22". Artwork is copyright protected by the artist. All rights reserved. Do not copy image without the artist's permission.


Nancy Christy-Moore, www.nchristy.com, is an internationally recognized, award winning painter from Phoenix, AZ. She brings the joy of color and movement to her “Inner Paintings.”

Nancy also conducts workshops which she says are about “finding your inner child and expressing your inner feelings as much as making viable paintings with good composition and design.”

She shares, “Eight years ago my only child, my beautiful, creative and deeply spiritual daughter was diagnosed with stage 4 uterine cancer at age 34 and I faced the biggest challenge in my life. When her life ended six months later, it became a daily challenge to find a reason to continue. In the studio, splashing paint and working on completing my paintings focused my mind and spirit and got me through the toughest depression and grief I've ever experienced.

Managing my classes and exhibiting and selling my work also gave me solace and paved the way back to a full expression of joy and passion for life which I enjoy today. The pain, anger and despair all disappear when I'm creating.”

To read more excerpts from the book Vision, Passion & Purpose and learn how to order, please visit http://bit.ly/artistsinspire

The Healing Powers in Carnelian

One of my favorite books is The Crystal Bible, A Definitive Guide to Crystals, by Judy Hall. As the title suggests it is a very comprehensive book.

Last night I relaxed and curled up with this amazing book. I want to share with you some wonderful new discoveries about the power of Carnelian. It is a stone I use frequently in my Jewelry of Art designs. The color is rich and warm and varies in shades from reddish brown to golden to orange and even slight pink tones. I use all sizes and cuts of this stone to express a range of moods.

Read about the many properties on my Jewelry of Art blog http://reneephillipsartjewelry.blogspot.com/2011/06/amazing-properties-of-stones.html

The Healing Power of Color

Several ancient cultures, including the Egyptians and Chinese, practiced chromotherapy -- using colors to heal. Chromotherapy is sometimes referred to as light therapy or colourology and is still used today as a holistic or alternative treatment.

Facts About The Color Green ~ The Color of the Heart Chakra

Green is thought to relieve stress and help heal. Those who have a green work environment experience fewer stomachaches.

Green is the color of the Heart Chakra, also known as Anahata. This chakra is located at the center of the chest area and is linked to the heart, lungs, circulatory system, cardiac plexus, and the complete chest area.

The Heart Chakra bridges the gap between the physical and spiritual worlds. Opening the Heart Chakra allows a person to love more, empathize, and feel compassion.

Green has long been a symbol of fertility and was once the preferred color choice for wedding gowns in the 15th-century. Even today, green M & M's (an American chocolate candy) are said to send a sexual message.

Green is often used in decorating for its calming effect. It is no coincidence, for example, guests waiting to appear on television programs often wait in a “green room” to relax.

Hospitals often use green because it relaxes patients.

Researchers have found that green can improve reading ability. Some students may find that laying a transparent sheet of green paper over reading material increases reading speed and comprehension.

Green is the color used for night-vision goggles because the human eye is most sensitive to and able to discern the most shades of that color.

Do you like to wear Green?
View Renee Phillips' Jewelry of Art pieces at http://www.ReneePhillipsArt.com.
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Measuring Self-Growth

Seeing The Big Picture

By Renee Phillips, The Artrepreneur Coach

How do you measure your daily or weekly progress? By the items you finished on your To Do List or the major lessons you learned and life changes you made?

In earlier days I would derive enormous satisfaction from making a list and focusing on tackling busy tasks. When I could draw a line through the finished task with a red magic marker I felt successful. Today, that seems lame to me.

Although I still feel satisfied from accomplishing necessary tasks I now am more aware of when I bury myself with the To Do list and lose sight of the larger picture. I now strive for more balance.

I find myself now measuring my personal fulfillment each day with the answers to these questions: How did I grow today? What lesson(s) did I learn and apply this day/this week that will build my personal power? How am I a better person by how I managed today's experiences? And, from a business perspective, what did I accomplish today that added to my bank account?

Bobbie Friedman's "Ability Series"

Her Colorful Art Has The Power to Heal

Bobbie Friedman, www.BobbieFriedman.com, is a self-taught artist whose exuberant and colorful personality exudes the full spectrum of the rainbow. She uses color, form and movement with unbridled spontaneity and intense emotional expression.

Her BS degree in Physical Therapy from Boston University, her vast experience working with her patients and her significant knowledge of anatomy have infused her art with human characteristics which she takes to an entirely new level of creative imagination.

Although the brightly hued images encourage viewers to laugh at their own quirky human traits, we also discover Bobbie, the social conscious activist. She is compelled by the desire to project strong messages in her work and build awareness about the ills of our society.

Shown here is her painting "#11" from her "Ability Series".Artwork is copyright protected by the artist. All rights reserved. Do not copy image without the artist's permission.


About Bobbie Friedman's "Ability Series"

We know that art has the power to heal. It transcends age, cultures, ethnic backgrounds and genders. Bobbie Friedman's direct, colorful and dynamic paintings can be understood by everyone.

Her important series speaks to the social issues in our society which affects all individuals and families who have experienced some form of disability or health related challenge.

In “The Ability Series,” we see Bobbie as an artist imbued with a strong sense of compassion and advocacy. In these paintings she portrays figures with physical disabilities engaged in sports activities. Her purpose is to build awareness about the abilities rather than the disabilities of the physically challenged by sharing her paintings and widely distributing her prints.

Shown here is Bobbie Friedman's painting "Therapeutic Horseback Riding" from her Ability Series. Artwork is copyright protected by the artist. All rights reserved. Do not copy image without the artist's permission.

Bobbie states, “There are so many 'Wounded Warriors' returning home with disabilities. It would be a healing process for the families to understand that their family member can again participate in sports that the families enjoyed previous to a parent being injured. This speaks to returning normality to the family unit.

Children with physical disabilities will also connect with the simplicity and uplifting nature of 'The Ability Series' images."

To learn more about Bobbie Friedman and to view her art work visit http://www.BobbieFriedman.com

Art Comforts Woman with Alzheimer's

This is a wonderful article about Dorothy Bowman, an artist who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2000. Bowman was a professional artist who began painting as a girl. She still paints. "Painting makes me feel good," Bowman said. "I feel more calm." http://www.thecalifornian.com/article/20100226/LIFESTYLE/2260328/Artistic-talent-shines-through-cloud-Alzheimer-s

Dignity For The Homeless

Paintings by Judy LewLoose

Judy LewLoose, "Leading for Safe Ground" watercolor pointillism on aquaboard, 36" x 24". Artwork is copyright protected by the artist. All rights reserved. Do not copy image without the artist's permission.

Judy LewLoose, www.lewloosewatercolors.com, an artist from Folsom, CA, was deeply affected by the plight of the homeless and states, “I had an undying desire to touch the lives of the less fortunate and to experience their raw emotions of anger, pain and frustration.” Her “Dignity for the Homeless” series of watercolor pointillism paintings portray Sacramento's homeless.

Judy is one of the extraordinary artists who will be featured in my book about Artists Who Create Positive Change. Learn more about the book at http://bit.ly/artistsinspire

You can read more about Judy and her art on The Artrepreneur Coach blog

Steven Rodrig: Sculpture from Reclycled Computer Parts

An Environmentally Concerned Artist

By Renee Phillips, The Artrepreneur Coach

Steven Rodrig, "Dragonfly Waiting To Transfer Data". Artwork is copyright protected by the artist. All rights reserved. Do not copy image without the artist's permission.

Steven Rodrig, http://www.pcbcreations.com, is an artist living in New Jersey. His innovative sculpture, which he refers to as “PCB (Printed Circuit Board) Mixed Media”, is created from recycling and restructuring circuit boards and electronic parts.

Steven’s subjects range from insects, flowers and still life to intricate cityscapes. In response to our environmental concerns Steven’s computer parts, otherwise destined for the landfills, are now the components of sculpture that conveys an important message.

Steven states, “It seemed a waste to me to have these individually perfect pieces discarded.” Steven has received tremendous support and publicity on the Internet for his work. The "Green" community appreciates Steven's interest in keeping all of these discarded electronic components out of our landfills which would stay there for many generations.

Steven Rodrig is featured in Renee's book about Artists and Positive Change. Learn more http://bit.ly/artistsinspire

Bereavement Artists, A New Healing Resource

Celebrating The Life of A Loved One Through Art

BereavementArtists.com, http://bereavementartists.com, was founded in 2010, by Colorado artists Teresa Dunwell,  Gina Klawitter, and Anita Larson. The artists met at a Denver Hospice education event. In sharing their experiences and listening to attendees, they recognized a need for the bereaved community to have a comprehensive, easy-to find, resource of bereavement art services.

Teresa Dunwell, www.livingworksstudio.com, "Veiled Art. " Combining her love of art and creative process with her deep appreciation for their transformative power, she brings luminosity and radiance into her expression of the work called 'veiled oil'.  With grace and dignity the heart moves the hand to greater expression of itself."

 Gina Klawitter, www.aliveoncanvas.com, "Butterfly Girl". "Treasured clothing and personal belongings seemingly come to life in my mixed-media collage portraits."

BereavementArtists.com provides a comprehensive resource for those wishing to connect with artists who specialize in bereavement. Whether you are grieving an impending, recent, or long ago death – you will find a variety of Bereavement Artists to help you honor your beloved.

Anita Larson, www.arthonoringlife.com, "Memory Board". "This memorial art is a beautiful way to display a loved one’s mementos and photos to have a visual remembrance."

The purpose behind the program is very clear: “It is the goal of each artist listed on this site to provide art as a path for healing and celebrating the life of a loved one.”

The Bereavement Artists online directory is searchable by name, type of art or state. It provides an art-services resource for hospice organizations, churches and funeral homes to direct their clients. It also serves as a platform for Bereavement Artists to gain exposure to their unique audience and form community. To artists who specialize in Bereavement Art this offers opportunities for media exposure, speaking and exhibiting at conventions that are specific to grief and loss. "We believe in connection, collaboration, sharing and caring.”

Become An Artist Member

Artist membership is currently available for $39. Qualifications for becoming a member of Bereavement Artists include: Artists should be working artists creating original art specifically for those who have suffered a loss; and Artists must have an independent art business website. Your website must include your bereavement art experience, services and examples of bereavement art. A website is required to be listed on the site. All applications are subject to approval.

Become A Sponsor

You may help Bereavement Artists by doing any or all of the following: Distribute flyers and information; Have a presence at essential conventions and events; Educate the general public; Host an annual retreat; Expand publicity initiatives; Educate artists; and Share a link to this article on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn!

Artists like Teresa, Gina and Anita are being included in Renee's upcoming book about Artists Who Create Positive Change. For more information visit http://bit.ly/artistsinspire.

David Barton, Featured Artist

Arresting Works of Art Initiate A Powerful Dialogue

By Renee Phillips, The Artrepreneur Coach

"My Art represents how I see the world."

Blind Faith, 72" x 42" x 26", reclaimed fiberglass, plastic, wood, metal, rubber, fabric and painted in artist oils. Artwork is copyright protected by the artist. All rights reserved. Do not copy image without the artist's permission.

David Barton's www.bartsarts.com, arresting creatures arouse a myriad of emotional reactions that only an artist of his depth of experience and talent could manifest. After the initial shock we find the tongue in cheek humor in these wondrous figures. If we dare we may see ourselves and our own vulnerabilities in their odd gaze or disfigurement. As all extraordinary art must do, his art initiates a powerful dialog within us and our concepts about beauty, self image, distortion and fear. His art has a lasting profound impact on viewers long after the first encounter for the stories and interpretations they continue to unleash.

David was born in Lowell, Massachusetts in 1963. He is the recipient of the Winner’s Award from The Roosevelt Paper Companies Competition in Painting and Drawing, The Stuart M. Egnal Prize in Painting and The Ernest W. Greenfield Annual Memorial Award in painting. Manhattan Arts International selected his work as one of the winners in the Healing Power of ART 2009-2010 juried competition.

Today Barton is creating a cohesive and powerful body of work, however, he states, “My Life took a detour when I was diagnosed with HIV and AIDS on February 14, 1991. I was 27 at the time. My body and mind soon began to betray me. I was forced to face an assault on my life, yet never saw the perpetrator. I suffered everything from wasting, depression, cancer (three times), suicide attempts, heart failure, splenectomy, homelessness, poverty and the social stigma of the disease."

How he survived and grew stronger is based on his strong positive philosophy. He shares, "What I have learned is that someone, somewhere is much worse off then me. How fortunate I am to have the support of so many. To live in the moment and appreciate all the simple things life has to offer."

He continues, "I have shared this knowledge when publicly speaking on living with AIDS, working as a massage therapist on clients, facilitating classes on safer sex and showing and sharing my art work. I hope to convey that knowledge is power, ignorance is fear and laughter is the best medicine.”

To read an article about David Barton and see more of his work in Manhattan Arts International Reading Room visit http://www.manhattanarts.com/readingroom/ezine/People/Barton.htm

Renee Phillips, The Artrepreneur Coach, NYC: Helen P. Shipman, Featured Artist

Renee Phillips, The Artrepreneur Coach, NYC: Helen P. Shipman, Featured Artist

Helen P. Shipman's Paintings with Writings on The Human Condition

Judith Olivia HeartSong Inspires Us

Healing Us With Her Talent and Big Heart

By Renee Phillips, The Artrepreneur Coach

Judith Olivia HeartSong will be featured in my upcoming book about Artists Who Transform, Inspire, Take Initiative, Step Outside the Box, Turn Pain into Purpose, and Create Positive Change in the World!

Shown here is a photograph of a very large mural Judith painted at the National Zoo in Washington DC. Judith has had numerous exhibitions and awards, and her work is in many private and public collections.

Art can serve as a catalyst if your mission is to participate in social change. It can provide solace for broken hearts if your mission is to heal. It can make a life burned from hardship and pain more tolerable if you tap into your creative Source and express yourself fully.

There are many outstanding artists who naturally respond to a deep felt mission and purpose using their art as a healing instrument to positively impact the lives of others. There are some individuals that inspire us to be more conscious with their talents and their acts of generosity. Judith Olivia HeartSong is such an artist.

Judith Olivia HeartSong, www.judithheartsong.com, is a painter and muralist who resides in the metropolitan Washington, DC area. She is also a resident artist and teacher at VisArts, www.visarts.org, the Metropolitan Center for the Visual Arts in Rockville, MD, founded on the belief, "There is a creative spirit in all of us that nourishes our humanity and enriches our society. We foster a creative culture that encourages people of all backgrounds, ages and skill levels to explore, participate and experiment in the visual arts."

Shown here is Judith's painting "Stacked Stones I", acrylic on canvas, 60" x 20". Artwork is copyright protected by the artist. All rights reserved. Do not copy image without the artist's permission. 

On the home page of her website Judith has written, "I have been working as a professional artist for twenty-nine years now, after a public school education in which my focus was completely art-centric. As a child I was always out in nature, in the woods and along the creek beds of northern Pennsylvania. I developed a sense of awe and respect for the natural world early on and that devotion has never wavered."

Judith shares personal insight into her own healing, "While in therapy for childhood sexual abuse perpetrated by a family member, I started painting intuitively and spontaneously and before long I was having exhibitions." And, in sharing her empathy with others, "I worked with Arnold Palmer Hospital and other organizations in Central Florida to raise awareness for women's and children's issues."

In another gesture to come to aid, Judith designed a shirt for Dick Batchelor's Run for the Children. It turned out that Batchelor gifted one of her paintings to Mrs. Clinton at Mr. Clinton’s first inauguration.

Judith has developed and hosted popular painting workshops for law enforcement professionals, hospital care-givers, and mental health professionals, and she has created and taught numerous programs to serve at-risk teens. In addition Judith has spoken to college classes about art and healing, and has lectured in other venues. She also helps artists learn to network, license art, and do their own public relations work, and has a book in progress.

To view more of her art visit her website at www.judithheartsong.com
Visit her blog at http://judithheartsong.blogspot.com/

Judith Olivia HeartSong will be featured in my upcoming book about Artists Who Transform, Inspire, Take Initiative, Step Outside the Box, Turn Pain into Purpose, and Create Positive Change in the World! 

Learn more about this book http://bit.ly/artistsinspire