Creative Pathways II: Transformations

Continuing in a similar vein as Creative Pathways I, we will resume our creative journey with this immersive workshop that invites us to explore and recognize the masks we wear – not to remove them entirely, but to understand how they have served us and whether they still do today.  Throughout our lives we develop ways of protecting ourselves. Over time these adaptations become the masks we wear. Carl Jung believed that the Persona is the outward mask we present to the world, concealing our actual self.  The shadow can represent the repressed, hidden parts of your personality.

Our persona bridges public and private truths. Healers’ and artists’ notice what the masks conceal, welcoming the shadows, and transforming the previously hidden parts of ourselves.

The program combines lectures, guided workshops, group discussion and experimental exercises. Participants will be provided with a blank mask that they can paint, collage, draw, or write poetry on them as part of creative self-discovery. A key feature of the workshop is a sound bath, which supports deep relaxation, inner focus and heightened creative awareness.

This sensory experience complements the hands-on art making, allowing participants to access deeper levels of imagination and expression.

A booklet with an outline of the workshop, and a list of reading material will be provided for each participant. All art materials will be supplied as part of the workshop.

Learning objectives
By the end of this course, participants will:

1. Gain an awareness and understanding the masks we wear in our daily lives, which Jung called the Persona.
2. Gain an understanding the ways in which Persona or “social archetype” directs and shapes our lives.
3. Gain an understanding of the concept of the Shadow archetype, which Jung understood as the hidden parts of our psyche.
4. Understand importance of uncovering these Shadow aspects, and the ways in which these hidden aspects can be revealed.

Fradi Spilberg, Ph.D. Is a clinical psychologist  working in St Louis since the 1990’s. She has always been interested in creativity as an artist, as well as the psychological aspects of human behavior and creativity. Her involvement in the C. G. Jung Society of St Louis has been an inspiration in developing & sharing these programs.

Melissa B. Castro is a St Louis-based artist with over 30 years of experience as an illustrator and designer. Constantly exploring new avenues for creativity, Melissa also practices sound healing, blending art and energy to inspire transformation. This workshop is a reflection of her journey – one that encourages others to embrace their own creative path and unlock new possibilities in their lives.