group expressıve arts(exa) sessıons
Expressive arts are utilised in team building, brainstorming, problem solving, peace and conflict resolution and targeted in a wide range of business, professional and educational settings. Expressive arts group sessions can be organised as one-off sessions or as a series of sessions with a closed group gathering regularly. These sessions empower individuals to embrace their authentic self while fostering a sense of belonging and cohesion within a group. They not only support individual identity exploration but also foster dynamic shifts within the group, as participants grow and connect on deeper levels.
structure of a group exa sessıon
Expressive arts group sessions are a unique, immersive experience tailored to the needs and expectations of the groups. Here’s a general outline of what you can expect during a group session:
1. Tuning in
Expressive arts group sessions begin with activities or games to help participants become present and focused. Depending on the group setting or the stage of the group work, introductions may occur. A safe space is co-created by establishing ground rules for respectful interaction and confidentiality.
Participants may set an intention for the session—this could be something like exploring a particular feeling, gaining insight into a situation, or simply engaging in creative play. If there is a pre-decided theme for the session, this theme is lightly but intentionally mainstreamed throughout the session while allowing participants for other discoveries. Based on the intention/theme, art-making process starts following a warm up.
2. Art making or play
Based on the theme or aim of the group session, facilitators guide the group through creative activities. These might include visual arts, dance and movement, music and sound, and writing through journaling and poetry. The art-making take place individually, in pairs and groups.
The focus is not on creating a "finished" piece of art but on the process of expressing yourself. Participants can always go back to the artwork they have created later on, make changes or continue working on it during another session, if there is any following session.
3. Reflection and Harvesting
After the creative exploration, you will have time to reflect on your experience. We will explore together what came up during the session in line with the willingness of the participants to share.
This reflection can lead to new insights, emotional release, or a deeper understanding of your inner world. However, we do not do interpretations of any art work as it is not the purpose of expressive arts.
Duration and Frequency
Regular group sessions with closed groups last between 90 minutes to 2 hours.
One-off sessions with a theme last between 3 and 3,5 hours.