What are you on fire about now? Where does your fiery urge to create come from? What do you do to rekindle the inner flame of creativity when it is nearly extinguished by despair or fear? And what are you doing to pass on the torch of your inspiration?

These questions are at the heart of one of the greatest human mysteries of all—creativity. This weekend workshop explores the history of creativity, from painting and writing to photography, movies, music, as well as its practice in everyday life. The template for the weekend will be the three incandescent stages of the Creative Journey—Inspiration, Perspiration, and Realization—which we will delve into by way of stories, film clips, and animated discussion. Inspired by Aristotle’s twenty-five hundred year-old advice that, “One learns to play the harp by playing,” we will also employ writing and sketching exercises. Themes to be included: the ever-changing role of the arts, cultivating work habits, the use of dreams and role of mentors, the dreaded creative block, the myth of genius, art in the marketplace, and the spiritual side of art.

Drawing on the work of C.G. Jung, Marija Gimbutas, James Hillman, Joseph Campbell, and Stephen Aizenstat, this workshop is designed for all those who are fascinated—or confused—about the nature of creativity, from painters and poets to gardeners, coaches, teachers, and therapists.

REGISTRATION: Space is limited. Register early! To register, complete the form on this webpage or call the Public Programs Department at 805.969.3626, ext. 103. Full payment is required with your registration. An email confirmation letter will be sent within 5 days of receipt of your registration.