Eco art therapy activity - Natures shadows

Today was wonderfully sunny and a gentle breeze swirled around.

Looking out my kitchen window I noticed how hypnotic it became watching the taller, wispy grass and plants, swaying in the wind. Watching this felt grounding, centering me in the moment where I was doing nothing else apart from observing the movements of nature.

I wanted to carry this feeling into a moment of art making, to see what feeling and reflections could be found.

I had heard of shadow art through various channels and artists and felt the process of collaborating with nature and the related release of control fit perfectly.

This is my experience and guide to Therapeutic Nature Shadow Drawing…

(video of process at the end)

This process may initiate:

• A connection to the present moment

• Release from perfectionism

• Connection to nature and natures movements

Resources:

• Pen/drawing medium

• Paper

• Light source

• Plants

Locate a sunny spot in nature with some foliage or plant life. (Indoor option is a container of flowers near a window or lamp).

(I chose a spot atop the cliffs near my home)

Observe the scenery and plant life. Try to locate plants casting shadows upon the ground. Once you have found some shadows that call to you, position your paper so that the shadows now fall across it.

Take a moment to pause, perhaps take a few breaths, and settle into the moment. Notice how the shadows may bob and sway across the page in passing breezes.

When you are ready, take your pen and begin to trace the shadow. Following the lines you may come across the shadow shifting and changing through movement or light. This may evoke a feeling of frustration ( as it admittedly did for me). You may wish to pause but try to continue your drawing, continuing to grow your shadow tracing, allowing it to evolve/change organically. This is your collaboration with nature, a sharing of control.

Once you feel complete, hold your image for a moment and take a moment to reflect.

Reflection:

Did you notice yourself feeling focused on the present moment and the drawing process? Were there any moments of frustration? How did you feel yourself adapting or feeling during moments where natures changes influenced your work? How did it feel to continue with your drawing through changes in shape and movement? Can you embrace any unplanned or felt ‘imperfections’?

Georgina x

The shadows are as important as the light.

Charlotte Bronte

Video of my process: