In preparation for my part of the Healing Arts camp, I researched art therapy activities (on Pinterest no less!) A Tree of Life Narrative resonated with me and so I adapted this for the students at New Dawn. I shared with them how it is possible to use the visual arts to depict aspects of our lives, to respond to what we are experiencing, or to respond to scripture. I showed them examples from my own sketch book that I use during church to respond to sermons.
In this activity, roots are metaphor for where we have come from, our family of origin, important people or experiences that influence us today, both positively and negatively. The ground is our present life, the trunk, what we are good at, the talents God has given us. The branches represent our hopes, dreams, and aspirations for the future, what we are growing toward. The leaves are important people, both past and present, or scripture that nurture, support, and encourage us. In the sky we could also depict any storms or situations that threaten or discourage us.
I first walked the students through drawing and coloring an acacia tree and the scene as preparation and practice for our larger unity painting we would do together. On the large canvas we took turns drawing the different elements, making sure we drew enough roots and branches and leaf sections for every student to have their own. We then got a first coat on. All this on the first day!
I also taught them about color mixing. The paint and canvas were left over from the mural I did at Edy Ridge Elementary this year and were graciously donated by the school for my trip.
The second day we put on a second coat and finishing touches such as highlights and shadows. As the painting was drying, we then walked through adding words to our individual trees expressing all the elements of the tree narrative. They were so focused and quiet. I also shared with them, that as they did this part of the exercise, they could consider this as prayers to God.
All dry and ready to write on with sharpies!
Students transferred their words to our unity tree.
As we created our unity painting, we decided to use the ground for our favorite scripture verses, depicting how we are rooted and grounded in the word of God who sees us and helps us grow into Him.
All done and hung on the wall in their main hall.
Such a wonderful, thoughtful group of students. It was an incredible blessing and privilege to be with them.
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