Open Arts studio in Geneva
🍎OK’TAVA Thursdays is an open arts studio in Geneva. Every week, we invite a creative master (artist, sculptor, cook, yoga instructor, dance coach, actor) to teach us their art over refreshments, drinks and music. Our mission is to build an open creative community in Geneva and beyond.
⏰ Every Thursday, 17:30-20:30 (or later 😉)
We offer refreshments, drinks, art materials, music and so much more. There is no fee to participate, but we warmly invite donations to support our creative guides and the vulnerable in our community.
We will announce the theme of each Thursday in advance. You can register using the following link: https://signup.com/go/bFYwAoF
PEACE Lean-Ins
In collaboration with U4U CrowdCaring and OK'TAVA Open Arts, we proudly present the Peace Lean-ins and Kid2Kid Tees. Over the course of two years, this project brought together hundreds of children from diverse backgrounds, using art as a universal language to forge connections and foster understanding.
The idea behind Peace Lean-ins and Kid2Kid originated from U4U Volunteers, who envisioned transforming bed linens donated by the Red Cross and simple white tee-shirts into canvases of peace and healing. A reminder of comfort and security, as well as a safe space for artistic expression, the Lean-ins have become a refuge from trauma and pressure and a source of hope for hundreds of people. Through the strokes of paint, the intricate designs, and the heartfelt messages, they speak volumes about the people’s experiences, fears and dreams.
Each piece is a testament to the power of art to transcend language barriers, cultural differences, and geographical boundaries. The Peace Lean-ins and Kid2Kid Tees are a collaborative patchwork, reflecting the resilience and creativity of those who contributed. These artworks represent more than just canvases – they embody safety, home, and spiritual freedom.
Let the Peace Lean-ins and Kid2Kid inspire you to embrace the power of art as a catalyst for change, understanding, and unity. May they remind us that through creativity, we can break the silos, build bridges, and foster harmony and peace.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to U4U CrowdCaring, OK'TAVA Open Arts, the Red Cross, and all the artists, volunteers, and refugees who contributed to the creation of these extraordinary Peace Lean-ins and Kid2Kid Tees.
ART-Therapy
Art therapy activities conducted with a licensed art therapist involve the use of artistic expression to promote healing, self-discovery, and emotional well-being. These activities are carefully designed to address specific therapeutic goals and cater to the unique needs of individuals. Here are some common art therapy activities:
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Free-Form Drawing or Painting: Participants are encouraged to express their emotions freely on paper or canvas using colors, shapes, and lines. This unstructured approach allows for a spontaneous release of feelings and can provide insights into the individual's emotional state.
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Collage Creation: Creating collages involves selecting and arranging images, textures, and colors from magazines or other materials. This activity can help individuals explore and communicate aspects of their identity, aspirations, or challenges in a non-verbal manner.
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Mandala Creation: Drawing or painting mandalas, circular geometric patterns, can be a meditative and centering activity. The process of creating a mandala can help individuals explore their inner thoughts, feelings, and achieve a sense of balance.
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Sculpture or Clay Work: Working with three-dimensional materials like clay provides a tactile and sensorimotor experience. Sculpting allows individuals to explore form and texture, promoting self-expression and the externalization of internal conflicts.
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Mask Making: Creating masks allows individuals to represent different aspects of themselves or explore hidden emotions. It can be a powerful metaphorical activity for understanding one's identity and the various roles played in life.
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Guided Imagery with Art: The therapist guides participants through visualization exercises, and they are then encouraged to represent their mental images through art. This process can help individuals connect with their inner selves and explore subconscious thoughts and feelings.
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Art Journaling: Keeping an art journal involves combining written and visual elements to document thoughts and emotions. It can serve as a reflective tool and a way to track personal growth throughout the therapeutic process.
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Group Murals: Collaborative art projects, such as group murals, encourage communication and cooperation among participants. Each individual contributes to a collective piece of art, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.
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Storytelling through Art: Participants create visual narratives or storyboards to convey personal experiences or challenges. This activity can help individuals externalize their stories and gain new perspectives on their life journeys.
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Art and Mindfulness: Incorporating mindfulness techniques with art, such as focused breathing or body scans, can enhance self-awareness and promote relaxation during the creative process.
It's important to note that art therapy activities are tailored to the specific needs and goals of each individual or group. The licensed art therapist facilitates these activities, providing support, interpretation, and guidance to help participants explore and process their emotions in a therapeutic and constructive way.
