tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21212351096786104832024-02-07T05:25:12.805-05:00 Bloomin' Quilts and Tangles Making sense of Quilts, Tangles and LifeDeb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.comBlogger110125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-90402738628135511102019-01-09T17:26:00.000-05:002019-01-09T17:26:40.621-05:00Happy New Year!Greetings,<br />
As some of you know, I have expanded my work to include art therapy/ psychotherapy. I continue to provide quilting, and teach Zentangle. Please jump over to my new website, Bloominglife.ca. I have a recent blog post for you to read.<br />
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I appreciate your interest in what I share with you. I hope that you will continue to visit my blogs and website.<br />
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https://www.bloominglife.ca/single-post/happy-new-year<br />
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www.bloominglife.ca/blog<br />
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May you bloom and grow.<br />
Deb Kopeschny, RP, Art Therapist, Certified Zentangle Teacher, Quilt artistDeb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-80387689960516193212018-04-11T22:42:00.003-04:002018-04-11T22:44:20.392-04:00FaithfulnessFaithfulness. What is faithfulness?<br />
Recently I listened to a sermon on faithfulness which was rooted in the stories of Daniel. Interesting stories of my childhood, which speak of believing and acting in faith to God, despite dilemmas that challenge Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah. Daniel and his friends decided to go against the preferential diet of the kingdom and become vegan; friends whose knowledge and abilities often challenged the Kings of the time.<br />
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Faithfulness is a fundamental resolve by most organized religions. Sometimes faithfulness has been used to control individuals and require unquestioning commitment. But is that faithfulness? is faithfulness only part of a religious belief and doctrine?<br />
According to the online dictionary.com; faithfulness is a noun which means: the quality of being faithful; fidelity; being constant; dependable; steadfast fidelity to whatever one is bound to by a pledge, duty or obligation.<br />
With this definition, faithfulness can also represent honest steadfastness in the integrity of one's personal beliefs. This faithfulness means that standing with your beliefs; having integrity; and remembering one's personal focus. So although having faithfulness to God can be one person's belief; faithfulness to one's core values is also a similar form of faithfulness.<br />
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Remember your core beliefs and values. This is what keeps you upright when the world is tough; this is what keeps you going when it feels like the systems are against you. Amidst all that, it is your core beliefs and values that remain with you, and what you can remain committed to.<br />
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Faithfulness. Try it.Deb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-43266019759334345782018-03-04T21:09:00.002-05:002018-03-04T21:09:34.577-05:00Welcome and Moving OnThe year of 2018 is in full force. With it is new ideas and motivation to engage with customers and myself. One of those important factors is my online presence. I have been working diligently with a website and marketing professional to redesign my brand and presence on the web.<br />
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Stay posted, as I plan to begin a new venture with <b>Blooming Life</b>.<br />
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This new site will be a ongoing presence, sharing specific information about my psychotherapy/art therapy practice, and also include references and information on my Zentangle and Quilting businesses, which intertwine as life ventures which help you and me flourish and succeed. I hope to hear from you with your comments and feedback - but also your engagement!<br />
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Check back soon!<br />
DebDeb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-71556173538631300682017-06-14T11:54:00.000-04:002017-06-14T11:58:25.195-04:00Summer 2017Greetings,<br />
It has been a half a year since my last post. What is happening in your world? What does your world include?<br />
The beginning of this year could make some of us very disheartened by the increase in discrimination, outright hate, and judgement. It does make me very sad to believe that people want to limit each other's potential and growth by sending messages to each other that controls and restricts us from being who we are meant to be.<br />
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In the last year, I have been exposed to the effects of discrimination and control on several groups of people. The long-term impact on people's lives and their ability to overcome the trauma, self-hate and self-judgement is overwhelming. I provide healing presence for those who have experienced trauma and discrimination on multiple layers and levels; hate, abuse, beatings, (and more) on those who identify as LGBTQ2; those who have less power; those who are perceived as being dispensable - including children; and women...<br />
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I think for me, the impact on how our society, systems and especially religions controls women has been the most upsetting. The use of the law, distribution of money, distribution of power, enforcement of 'cultural and religious practices' all make woman less than... and contribute to how our society ALLOWS women to be seen and treated as less than. I never would have thought that I would say it ... but I believe I have become a feminist. Feminism does not mean a brow-beating, man-hating philosophy... Rather Feminism means that we are all created equal; and supporting and empowering women is only BUILDING our society to be healthier; to use and implement all of its resources. Feminism means empowering and supporting one another.<br />
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Feminism aligns with my belief in a God who is ever present; who works through us; who moves among us; ALL of us ; not just the men. <br />
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I leave you with the Womanly Living Tree. May you be able to grow as God intends.<br />
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Peace, healing, growth.<br />
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Deb<br />
<br />Deb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-67827778303854189922017-01-07T20:37:00.001-05:002017-01-08T20:50:48.230-05:00Happy New Year!Dear Friends, from the news and comments of others, 2016 was a year of stress and questions about humanity. While I have also experienced a lot ... a lot of stress, it has not necessarily been all negative. Rather, the year has been quite a mixture of highs and lows.<br />
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On the positive side, I completed the requirements of my Masters degree in Psychotherapy, Spirituality and Art Therapy. This included writing my thesis - a major accomplishment all on its own, finishing practicum hours, and ensuring all my documentation was completed. I also graduated officially in November 2016.<br />
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Wow! Then my gorgeous daughter got married in September, 2016, and we had a beautiful wedding - a wonderful, warm, beautiful wedding. I couldn't have been more proud of her and her husband Albert.<br />
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Then in October, 2016, my comrades on the Canadian Art Therapy Conference committee successfully ran the Annual Art Therapy conference in Toronto. We hosted Donna Betts, the President of the American Art Therapy Association, and David Gussak, a famous art therapist who works with the prison populations, as well as over 250 participants.<br />
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In August, 2016 I got my first fulltime job as a psychotherapist and art therapist at the Riverdale Immigrant Women's Centre supporting women leaving abusive and traumatic experiences. I am learning a lot.<br />
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And I turned 50. Whew. Those are all pretty incredible high points.<br />
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The negatives have been just as monumental. A family member was involved in a car accident which totalled the car in July, 2016. I watched as one of the saddest and discouraging elections took place in the United States.<br />
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In November, 2016 my father-in-law passed away after a 9 year battle with colon and lung cancer.<br />
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A friend and son of dear friends was diagnosed with sarcoma in May, 2016 and died the same day as my father-in-law on November 24, 2016. https://<a href="http://holdingfastsite.wordpress.com/">holdingfastsite.wordpress.com</a> <br />
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So 2017, I hope is more 'mundane'?!!!! Of course there are always opportunities for growth and seeking out challenges. Why would I seek challenges? Because, with challenges come change, new ideas, enhancement, building character, and wisdom.<br />
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At the same time, I have been thinking a lot about Vision. My vision, people's vision. That is, how people's vision shapes our focus, our intent, our identity, what we seek and the direction we end up going in. If my vision is positive, optimistic; and seeks to understand, then my direction in life will be shaped by that vision; and my focus and reality will be shaped by that vision. If I believe that I can succeed, and that despite challenges, I can make a positive impact, then that will shape my reality. I have seen people with immense struggles, who should be overcome by pain and find it impossible to go on, and yet ... they still go on... they encounter the pain, find strength in God, suffer, but they know that there is something positive in the struggle, and believe that there is something greater than themselves. But I have also seen people who have seen problems, but find them overwhelming, and then become shadows of their former selves, because they understand life as only handing them problems. One's vision and the way we deal life's challenges define us and our direction in life.<br />
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With positives and negatives in life, which do you focus on? How do you meet the challenges? How do you celebrate the positives? Where do you gather your resources from that provide strength to handle life? And what direction are you going IN?<br />
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<br />Deb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-22535997931503960332016-08-25T11:09:00.001-04:002016-08-25T11:09:35.696-04:00New Beginnings and Opportunities for GrowthThis summer has been a roller coaster of emotions, struggles and growth. Between changes with my thesis, numerous submission for employment, supporting my children through individuation, weddings, and monumental birthdays there has been endless room for learning and growing - as long as I accept the task. It has not been easy. Sometimes our dreams get lost in the everyday demands and our responses to 'survival' require alternative focuses that distract us.<br />
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As I begin the new stage in my career, and my role in my family, I see opportunities for my own blossoming, and that of my family. I see it as my role to let go of my desire to 'be everything' for my family. This enables both of us to grow. Family is this binding and loosening of our connections. I see, that in the loosening of my everyday involvement, there will be a rubber band effect. They will both stretch and grow, and yet come back when needed. This is what I want for them. This is what I want for myself.<br />
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And so, I expand too; as I become more confident in this internal ability and strengths that can only be expressed. So be it. I am ready to let these abilities out. And it is exciting.<br />
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<br />Deb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-62783302234608701232016-06-15T14:34:00.000-04:002016-06-15T22:12:21.639-04:00Summer TimeSummer Time is here. How do I know? Because I must use my summer quilt!<br />
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Yes, I still quilt - piece, quilt on my long-arm - create: both artistic and practical quilts. As you can see, I love colour. Colour makes my heart sing. And this time of year the world is full of colour. Flowers, trees, people's clothes and the gay pride rainbow.<br />
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This week has been difficult for the LGBTQIIA+ community. The catastrophe in Orlando highlights how discrimination and hating create pain in all of us. This is not just a 'them' problem, we must all love and accept one another despite differences and disagreements. We are all responsible and part of a society which allows it to be okay to hate and cause pain. So, instead of alienation, let us ask, 'How can I help, and How can I understand you?' Love one another.<br />
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These two tiles were created in combination with the Kumomi painting and Zentangle. I enjoy the colour, and then finding ways to integrate Zentangle patterns among the random colours. I worked on these while I was in the waiting room at the doctor's office. Zentangling while waiting reduces my anxiety about the often very long waiting times. In the end, I feel productive about my artwork, and I also enjoy the beauty that I have created. </div>
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Try it! Zentangling is a great way to reduce anxiety and depression because it follows the simple idea of taking action. Taking action while in the midst of anxiety and depression changes the direction of the brain patterns from the downward spiral to the upward spiral. The act of starting a pattern with placing line on paper creates new brain patterns that develop positive and healthy neuronal networks. </div>
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Try it. Move on the upward way with activation. Do something. Anything. Just change the direction in a positive way and your brain will develop the new positive "using the positive" to move forward rather than remaining stagnant and not going anywhere.</div>
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And if you want to learn a simple way to be creative, to develop a meditation using art Join me for my Zentangle 101 class on Sat. June 25, 10:00-12 noon. deb@kopeschny.ca.Deb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-90885812365967874172016-05-24T15:06:00.003-04:002016-05-24T15:06:48.445-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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One Person's Junk is another person's treasure. </div>
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On my daily walk, I came across a pile of Forget-me-nots on a pile of garden compost. Someone did not think they were worthy of garden space. And yet, in my own garden, I was carefully digging around the forget-me-nots to keep them blooming until their season ended. Garbage. One person thinks it is done - not of use: Another can imagine what more can be done with it. What additional pleasures can be derived from it. Likewise, we have the dreaded dandelion. Throughout my neighbourhood people are piling up dandelions pulled from their roots in an effort to vanquish them from our yards. What purpose do these items have? Well, each has a purpose in Creator God's kingdom. We may not know the full purpose, we may not recognize the beauty or intent. But it is there. Dandelions, I know are very important first flowers that the honey bees drink nectar from. So while we strive to delete them from our yards - there is a purpose there. A very important one.<br />
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What else in our lives seemingly has little purpose? What else do we struggle with and want removed? Yet all living creatures have a purpose in God's Eyes, in God's Kingdom.<br />
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With patience let us wait for the purpose. And hence - Forget-me-nots, always a purpose.<br />
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I am planning for this Saturday's Zentangle workshops. Please join me for the Zentangle 101 at 1:00 p.m. or the Zendala (if you have taken Zentangle 101) at 10:00 a.m.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mini Zentangle garden- some 101 patterns</td></tr>
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Please contact me to attend - I still have 2 spots in each class.Deb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-50641676826850353422016-05-10T14:53:00.002-04:002016-05-10T14:53:28.265-04:00Upcoming Classes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have two classes coming up on Sat. May 28. The first class is Zendalas - the fantastic circular combination of Mandalas and Zentangle. This unique experience incorporates more difficult patterns in a repetitive and centering experience. Join me at 10:00 a.m. for Coffee, treats and Zendala!</div>
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The second class I have on Sat. May 28 is the Zentangle 101 class. You will learn the meditative art form of drawing simple, repetitive patterns into a unique abstract and beautiful piece. Come enjoy art-making in a relaxed open environment. This is a great hobby to take with you anywhere - great for vacations, airports, doctor's offices. Great for any age - if you can put a mark on a page, I can teach you how to draw a Zentangle.<br />
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Join me! email deb@kopeschny.ca<br />
<br />Deb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-10553978010193212622016-04-08T10:48:00.003-04:002016-04-08T10:48:40.590-04:00A New SeasonI have just completed a major task in my life, with the completion and submission of my thesis on Zentangle. Now I wait to for reviews and recommended changes on the thesis. It's a waiting game.<br />
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In the meantime, well, catch up. I am working on the completion of final paperwork and one final paper. There are many thoughts and anxieties going through my head. I am looking for a job, and with all my schooling and yet not graduated, I am unsure where to orient myself in the working world.<br />
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And then I continue to work on my own business, to enjoy teaching Zentangle, to quilt for others, and also help my daughter with wedding preparation. So despite the reduction in stress on my thesis completion, there are many other tasks I have to work on. Life continues, and I like it that way.<br />
Really, I am very grateful for the opportunities that I have. I have a supportive family, I have all my basic needs met, and I can be creative. I am thankful.<br />
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Recently I completed several sessions with a seniors group in Scarborough. I really enjoy working with many different people. The participation of the seniors, whether they come eagerly or with hesitation, are all welcome, and I learn and enjoy their presence. This was the final project we did - my examples (I will not post any participants art without their explicit written permission). I will be holding this class in the next month. Come and join me creating the Triskele Globe in Zentangle.<br />
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Tangle On!Deb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-34255927896899722132016-02-09T10:47:00.003-05:002016-02-09T10:47:56.807-05:00Valentangle! Good morning. I have been prepping for a class with some seniors. And so have some heart-favoured tangles. I went to check out the Diva's challenge, just wondering what others might be posting for this month. There is inspiration there! So here are a few of my tries.<br />
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Enjoy.<br />
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<br />Deb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-38431379914146734002016-01-23T11:53:00.002-05:002016-01-23T11:53:31.227-05:00Art isArt is the act of continually recreating<br />
sloughing off<br />
expanding<br />
building<br />
creating ourselves<br />
Art as part of spirituality<br />
which is to develop a belief and attitude and approach to life that seeks to help us reach our fullest potential.<br />
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Art as recreating - as we are being changed, moved; going through struggle; pain, which only - like a Diamond- hardens and forms a new gem.<br />
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It is not that we are working towards what we ought to be... what we want to be... because that defines us with limits.<br />
But<br />
Rather as potential<br />
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We are becoming - a reaching forward<br />
etched out<br />
shaped by life situations<br />
but all assisting and moving us in reaching our<br />
potential<br />
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In art we work actively at this process of becoming.<br />
of recreating.<br />
making Visual these changes.<br />
processing the acts of being.<br />
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Art as a spiritual act<br />
of Being more<br />
with the creator source spirit guiding us.<br />
January 13, 2016<br />
<br />Deb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-73605397002864151312016-01-12T10:29:00.003-05:002016-01-12T10:29:33.739-05:00In the Loop & Challenge #250I feel like I need to stay in the loop. What does that mean? I am an introvert. I will just put it out there. I find being with larger groups of people very tiring. I tend to desire my alone time; drawing, reading, sewing, walking. Those are my refuel times.<br />
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But I want to know what everyone is doing. I want to stay current in the latest techniques, and to know what the 'buzz' is about. I just don't need to be the best or do the latest hype - for instance the Zengems. But I've tried them; I just prefer to draw at my own pace, and with the simplest tools. That is why Diva's challenge this week - was - not a challenge? And that was COOL! I read Madam Diva's blog, and thought, Yea, I have lots of tiles that I've been working on lately. But, for the sake of the challenge I created a new one.<br />
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And as an art therapist, I felt this tile - even in its small form, shows the loop, and movement of forward and back. Generally, I don't analyse my tiles, but this was pretty straightforward in expressing how I've been feeling. The flow of moving forward at a gentle pace, and yet staying with what I am comfortable with. I want to know about staying current with trends in Zentangle and art therapy. I like to know what the latest is, I just don't need to do the latest. I will just stay in the loop.<br />
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So thanks everyone for sharing your Zengems and art. I enjoy your inspiration.<br />
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<br />Deb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-38703355189746075412016-01-05T22:15:00.004-05:002016-01-05T22:15:22.985-05:00New Year & Diva Challenge 249Happy New Year!<br />
Toronto had our first cold snap - just a snap. We barely noticed it. Glad we got that over with. The anticipation of extreme circumstances can be difficult to bare. When will it happen? What will happen? How severe will it be? Is it going to happen? Toronto has had such unbelieveably warm temperatures and yet it was inevitable that the cold would come.<br />
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Life is like that. Things are going along smooth, and we have no idea when some unknown and difficult event will hit us. We may believe we are doing everything right, and that nothing harsh will come along. And then when it does, we are not sure ... did we cause it? did we deserve it? what could we have done to avoid it?<br />
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It is a test and expression of our character of how we handle difficult circumstances. Do we go with the flow? or do we fight against its consequences? Do we make the most of what has happened, and learn some lessons that shape who we are as people?<br />
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Winter and cold weather may be a rather mundane example of extreme circumstances eventually affecting us; but it is an example and test to who we are and how we deal with it. <br />
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Zentangle has provided a way for many of us to learn to deal with the unexpected. Zentangle creates beauty from the unknown. The abstract and unknown way of shaping the piece of art allows us to be open to newness, change, new possibilities. It removes limits by seeing these unknown deviations as opportunities and not challenges. The metaphors for life that come from Zentangle reach our subconscious and affect our attitudes and ways of being in the world. Zentangle provides rich experiences which touch us through repetition and beauty. May we watch and wait, so that the next challenge can shape us and let us be reshaped.<br />
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Tangle On!<br />
<br />Deb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-36531410495371048772015-12-10T22:03:00.003-05:002015-12-11T07:51:47.626-05:00What is Art Therapy?What is Art Therapy?<br />
There are many different understandings of what art therapy is; and also many different ways art therapy is used. This makes explaining what art therapy is more confusing.<br />
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First, what art therapy is NOT:<br />
Art therapy is not a way for the therapist to interpret your personality, your deepest longings, or uncover some secret about you.<br />
Art therapy is not colouring.<br />
Art therapy is only drawing and painting.<br />
not only for artists<br />
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<b>Art therapy is</b> a relationships between an art therapist and an individual which integrates the use of an art activity to express emotions, experiences and thoughts. The art therapy exchange may focus on the art activity as a means of expression, or the art activity may use the art process as a means of metaphor, of working through psychological issues, and developing a therapeutic relationship.<br />
Art therapy is also known as art psychotherapy, expressive art therapy, creative arts therapy. It can use drawing, writing, painting, drumming, dancing, drama, craft-making, clay and jewellery-making - most creative activities. Often art therapy uses several methods of creative making to process issues and deepen self-understanding. Art therapy is effective with anyone, not only artists. Actually, the art activity is within a safe, non-judgemental relationship, often empowering art where individuals felt non-creative.<br />
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When I facilitate art therapy, my presence is integral to the individual's expression, self-reflection, and therapy. I do not interpret what the images may say, instead it is the clients interpretation of the image that will provide the most therapeutic understanding and change.<br />
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Here are several articles on Art Therapy.<br />
<a href="http://www.cathymalchiodi.com/about/what-is-art-therapy/">http://www.cathymalchiodi.com/about/what-is-art-therapy/</a><br />
<a href="http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-healing-arts/201303/art-therapy-and-counseling-true-love-or-convenience">http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-healing-arts/201303/art-therapy-and-counseling-true-love-or-convenience</a><br />
<a href="http://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2015/08/09/art-therapy-in-addiction-recovery/">http://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2015/08/09/art-therapy-in-addiction-recovery/</a><br />
<a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/art-therapy-is-more-than-just-making-nice-pictures_5609be20e4b0af3706dd8e26" target="_blank">http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/art-therapy-is-more-than-just-making-nice-pictures_5609be20e4b0af3706dd8e26</a><br />
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<a href="https://youtu.be/4UhlOVNgnDk" target="_blank">Art therapy with refugees</a><br />
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I believe art is wo<span id="goog_650921155"></span><span id="goog_650921156"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a>nderful way of healing, and expressing our humanity. Art therapy can help with your self-understanding and help you work through conflicts in a powerful way. Try it!<br />
<br />Deb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-24718051859619261992015-10-27T20:52:00.003-04:002015-10-27T20:52:36.841-04:00Diva challenge 241 + FallThis fall is going out like a lion - with a roar! So much business and important events happening in my families life. And in the moments I am tangling. On Monday I held a group of enthusiastic CZT from the Ontario area. Here is their tangle. CZTs are passionate about sharing Zentangle with whomever they meet. Bravo for sharing the view that art heals and you don't need to be an artist!<br />
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Then I took some time to do this weeks Diva Challenge - Cairn Stones of Health. It is very appropriate as tomorrow I will attend an Art Heals Health Conference here in Toronto. Art heals and helps integration which leads to health.<br />
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Tangle On!<br />
DebDeb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-40977921445655441482015-09-26T19:49:00.001-04:002015-09-26T19:49:16.933-04:00Toronto Star Article - Zen Quilter<span style="font-family: inherit;">It has been an eventful week, and I'm glad I've been able to share it with you. First the go-ahead for my research; and then the article in Toronto Star / StarTouch on my journey as a 'Zen Quilter.'</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The article is a succinct explanation of how both Quilting and Zentangle has influenced my life. We are all on a journey, and I hope to inspire you to include creative activity in your journey. </span><br />
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<b style="color: #333333; line-height: 22.3999996185303px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Quilts</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I have also been busy pulling a quilt together for a local Fundraiser. The Toronto United Mennonite Church has a building and supportive housing project called The Aurora House; which will provide housing for victims of human trafficking. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Here is my quilt Floral Blues, which I donated.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiumTOH0xPXlMyzKpxszYh9tLD7Pi7RWO5aW_4sJuKr6XdrugXCujaMSxkmToI4fd_fe2f0YaOFtfsqyeXA-gfmv5ul1k_nk2laSmQL7TWOkknx-Ba2TGGlfRF0Wb52gGOyHO5Fy3xGbUc/s1600/Aurora+Quilt+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiumTOH0xPXlMyzKpxszYh9tLD7Pi7RWO5aW_4sJuKr6XdrugXCujaMSxkmToI4fd_fe2f0YaOFtfsqyeXA-gfmv5ul1k_nk2laSmQL7TWOkknx-Ba2TGGlfRF0Wb52gGOyHO5Fy3xGbUc/s320/Aurora+Quilt+1.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><span style="line-height: 1.4rem;">Art and Creativity are important in the human journey. Art and creativity heal through the process of expression and integration of experiences, thoughts and emotions. Art and creativity provide a means of relaxation and meditation. Art and creativity develop social and community bonds by providing a visual means of connection and understanding. Art and creativity provide enhancement and enjoyment to life through providing and experience of beauty, vibrancy and stimulation. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.4rem;">How about trying some today?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 1.4rem;"><br /></span><span style="line-height: 1.4rem;">Tangle On!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.4rem;">Deb</span></div>
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<br />
http://startouch.thestar.com/screens/ "Life Section: Do It Yourself Revolution."<br />
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Saturday, September 26, 2015: The Toronto Star.<br />
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THE ZEN QUILTER</h1>
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The meditative creativity of Zentangle adds a twist to an old art</h3>
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<span class="author" style="color: #333333; display: block; font-family: Metric-Bold, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 1rem; line-height: 1rem; text-transform: uppercase;">ANDREA GORDON</span><span class="agency" style="color: #333333; display: block; font-size: 1rem; line-height: 1rem; text-transform: uppercase;">STAR TOUCH</span></div>
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Deb Kopeschny’s handmade quilts do not begin with a piece of fabric or a needle and thread. They start long before that, in a meditative moment when creativity and spirit collide and her pencil captures it on a small square of paper.</div>
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Deb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-49370703734779449842015-09-21T17:23:00.004-04:002015-09-21T17:23:23.502-04:00Research, Zentangle Classes, Iamthediva challenge 236<span style="font-family: inherit;">Whoa! I have received word that my research proposal and my ethics review of my research proposal have been approved. It's been a wait. But I am rolling on. The next step in the masters thesis process is to collect my data. So If you would like to know more about my research study, I would be happy to talk to you. As an overview, my research study is <span lang="EN-US">part of my art therapy training I am required to do research for a thesis. I
have been teaching Zentangle® for 5 years and I have seen its powerful effects
on participants. In my thesis I will continue to ex</span><span lang="EN-US">plore the effects
and experience of Zentangle®. The research question to be explored is: </span>“What is the phenomenological experience of a
mindful art activity, like Zentangle®, and its implications for art therapy?”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The first of the data collection will be a focus discussion group in October regarding a Zentangle experience. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you have never experienced Zentangle before, I invite you to attend a class Monday, September, 28 at the Harmony Community Centre in Oshawa, Ontario. For more information please see the link. <a href="https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/learn-to-zentangle-create-your-own-coloring-sheets-tickets-17995374650" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442858217932_22493" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/learn-to-zentangle-create-your-own-coloring-sheets-tickets-17995374650</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I have not done the diva challenge in a while - due to practicum, etc.... let's just say Life?!! But here is challenge 236. I used it as a way to calm down from my excitement and work in planning for my research ... practicing what I preach.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Can you tell what I tangled on? One of my cookbooks, the Mennonite Community Cookbook. I was paging through and noticed some cook Pennsylvania Dutch sketches; they were my inspiration. Have you ever heard of Vinegar Candy? That's called making use of what you have. Another inspiration. And art-making - Zentangle drawing is turning simple lines and shapes into beautiful art.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Tangle On!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Deb</span></div>
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Deb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-77316637551876863082015-08-11T14:49:00.002-04:002015-08-11T15:04:05.673-04:00Art and Art Therapy: A difference?<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Over 2 years ago Zentangle</span><span lang="EN-US">®</span><span lang="EN-US"> and Quilting
brought to my attention the importance of art to our health, well-being and
spirituality. In the last several months I have been more deeply involved with
sharing my passion of art and health with others in both the Seniors population
and within the Spiritual community of Mennonites. My work at St. Clair West Services
for Seniors has reinforced what I experienced personally through my creativity
with Zentangle</span><span lang="EN-US">®</span><span lang="EN-US"> and Quilting. Creativity and expression are fundamental to our being
human. The ability to create through art, baking, quilting, drawing,
woodworking, dancing, etc. are ways that we as humans imagine and process our
beliefs and feelings. Some of us may 'feel' and 'be' more 'artistic' than others but we all create in some way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">To some,
what seems like a simple and benign pastime, in actuality enhances and
expresses our sense of self. To deny this activity is to sever our connection
with self, community and God. From early times, humans have created as a means
to express and explore meaning about life and the spiritual world. Art was and
is a means of celebration and prayer. Everyone can be creative and express
themselves – it is not about making representative and beautiful art. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">What is the
difference between art and art therapy? How does the activity of art-making
change when it is within the relationship of art therapy? This is the question
I continue to ask as I work. There are many great programs that provide safe
and encouraging environments for art-making. The activity of the recreation therapist,
the gerontology activationist, the art workshop facilitator, the choral director are
important and effective relationships that promote creativity and
self-expression. So how is this different with an art therapist? One current discussion within the art therapy world is how the use of colouring books is
promoted. Isn’t the work with a colouring books similar to working with an art
therapist? No. Working with an art therapist in any creative activity is
different because it is the relationship and mirroring activity of being with
another person in a therapeutic atmosphere. The art therapist provides a safe,
reflective environment that promotes a deeper internal awareness of the process
and the creative product. This enlivens self-understanding, recognition of
ideas and the expression of self and promotes change in the process. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Dare I say,
even Zentangle</span><span lang="EN-US">®</span><span lang="EN-US"> within the relationship with an Art Therapist or counselor changes,
because the mindful drawing is used to promote reflection and awareness, rather
than focusing on the creation of beautiful abstract images. The art therapist
is able to help the clients access their internal self-knowledge through the
mirroring in relationship and the therapeutic presence. Art-making is an important
and effective as a tool for self-expression and connection with internal
awareness. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdktud_fGIlqgcExYndsAk23zzk1bImJ9Deb2MYsxgLCn16sE9_Fdgls6uvcRtGC1h-zdvTEiy5eaO5kP0e6x5Dj8J5o2wmjpjaHBmsw-IIRSjU3nHYRVtQypVKER5TnKzzeVxMV1Hj5c/s1600/growing+heart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdktud_fGIlqgcExYndsAk23zzk1bImJ9Deb2MYsxgLCn16sE9_Fdgls6uvcRtGC1h-zdvTEiy5eaO5kP0e6x5Dj8J5o2wmjpjaHBmsw-IIRSjU3nHYRVtQypVKER5TnKzzeVxMV1Hj5c/s1600/growing+heart.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Growing heart - Acrylic. April 2015. Showing the influence on the counselor from the therapeutic relationship. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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In my last
year, I created a workshop called “Contemplative Creation” which uses the frame
of Lectio Divina and Zentangle® as a means of prayer and connection with God. I
presented this workshop, along with an introductory Zentangle® workshop at the
Mennonite World Conference in July. Both were well-accepted having twice the attendance as indicated (over 60 came to each when only 30 were expected). I was thrilled by
the interest of the youth as well as adults. Using art as a means of expression
and connection with God can have powerful and long-lasting impacts on people’s
involvement with God. Every person has a unique way of learning and being in
the world, and our ways of connection with God are not all the same. Using art
provides another means of worship which can include and connect with God.</div>
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<span lang="EN-US">I will be
teaching Zentangle® 101 on Sunday, September 20<sup>th</sup> 1-4 p.m. at the
Harmony Community Centre in Oshawa. Tickets are available at<o:p></o:p></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><a href="https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/zentangle-workshop-tickets-17995374650" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1439213141208_162711" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/zentangle-workshop-tickets-17995374650</a> . Info also at <a href="http://www.howtoorganizethat.com/" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1439213141208_162709" rel="nofollow" shape="rect" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">www.howtoorganizethat.com</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> .</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">As well as more Zentangle® classes I am also planning a date to teach the contemplative creation practice, to promote meditation
and spiritual connection through art. I hope you will join me and explore the
world that art takes you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Deb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-71210646057028061582015-01-15T13:27:00.005-05:002015-01-15T13:27:48.800-05:00Diva #200Congratulations Laura Harms on your 200th challenge. What a feat... and I know you have lots more coming. You are an inspiration to all.<br />
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I must admit though; you said to do a monotangle. I kinda failed. :-} I turn to swirls, like mooka when I need calming. Of course, I don't usually do just mooka. It gets filled in with all sorts of organic patterns. So it is what it is.<br />
<br />
As you can see, organic tangles are my thing. Below is Week 2 of the Our Tangled Lives art journal. The aim was to incorporate a mission statement or quote that resonates with you. I developed my word of the year, "Embody" into an acrostic poem. And then the frame is leafy things. <br />
<br />
I am developing my art journalling. Generally, I just create art. I start colouring, and let a thought and colour take me. I don't plan much. Art is a process to me. It is not always about the end product. It is about what I feel and think while I am doing art.<br />
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This 3rd weeks art journal prompt is to create a snowflake from our initials, and use it as a string. The theme is "we are all unique". I agree, we are unique; although I find that we are more similar than unique, and this is what binds us together. In our minor differences, we find gifts and interests in knowing each other. These are the gems of life. However overall, we are similar, and knowing this helps us from becoming isolated.<br />
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Tangle On! debDeb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-24710649807188530852015-01-09T21:18:00.003-05:002015-01-09T21:18:20.205-05:00Diva 199 & Winter walksThe winter sun<br />
breaks into the skeleton of trees<br />
brightness shining among the dreary landscape<br />
a warm pancake spreading over<br />
the white and grey<br />
hoping for the syrupy warmth<br />
to fall on our shoulders<br />
mhm.<br />
The sweetness of the sun only known within<br />
the bitterness of the cold.<br />
<br />
Everyday I walk among the barren winter landscape with Sadie, but this week I have an additional dog, my daughter's red doberman Arya. Walking two dogs is vastly different than one. Walking in the winter, despite its dreariness, and even without the glorious sun, there is a dreamlike, surreal quality that endears me to it.<br />
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The cold makes the moments of the sun and the moments inside more enjoyable. I spent time early in the week competing Diva's Challenge from HeidiSue at TangleOoh!. A new tangle to try!<br />
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I made a mistake the first time I did the pattern. Can you find it? I love how mistakes can be turned into new variations. There is always possibility.<br />
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I am back to class and starting a placement. New challenges. And new possibilities. and new growth.<br />
I hope you experience something new too.<br />
deb<br />
<br />Deb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-42516277077403055092015-01-04T19:17:00.004-05:002015-01-04T19:17:26.413-05:00Happy 2015!Hello all,<br />
It is the start of a new year. A new Intention. A new semester. New beginnings. It is refreshment in the midst of a grey winter month.<br />
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I started off this new year, right, I taught Zentangle 101 on Saturday, and it went very well. It was so much fun, and as always energizing to have others enjoy Zentangle and art. Welcome to the Zentangle world. Each person who comes to take a class with me, teaches me in a unique way. It is because of my students that I am pushed a little more to becoming a better teacher, to sharing myself a little more with others. My world grows, and I hope your world does too.<br />
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One of my past attendees asked me to purchase some Opus tiles. She saw them online and was very excited about them. I ordered some for her, and have a few more - they are 10" x 10" in the same Zentangle paper. It will be a joy to construct a large Zentangle Inspired Art. At the same time I ordered some "Bijou". At first when Bijou came out, I thought, "What's all the excitement?!" And even when I saw how small they were (2" x 2") I thought, "How can I draw on something so small?!" Well change of tune! I started drawing on a few and I love them! They feel so petite and compact, and yet jewel-like (how did the border customs know they were jewels - they charged me duty like they were!). Beautiful. They take a lot less time to complete than a regular tile, and I can only do 1 or two tangles on them. But they are so neat! the work is more compact, and cute. Here are my first results. Remember they are only 2 inch x 2 inch.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I have joined an art journal group through the CZT group. This is my first page for week one. We were to choose a word of intention for the year. I chose "embody". <span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"> While I journal regularly, I have never done a specific art journal. Which is interesting, as I have an assignment to keep an art journal for class as well. I started off thinking my word would be "Do" and for my personal year "Worthy"; but rethought having two words, and came up with "Embody" which is really what I hope to achieve by doing and believing in myself as I do. I made my own journal using printmaking paper se</span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">wn together (7 x 5.5"), and then Duct tape to bind the 5 signatures. Then I found, while cleaning out my sewing room, some fabric I Zentangled on, and covered the outside with this (to be shown later). The first page included painting with watercolour; Sharpie letters, and micron 3 tangled. I let the colour dictate some of the shapes. </span></span></div>
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Onward... bring on the New Year! lets see what we can make of it, and how it shapes us. Stay warm and dry so that you can be creative.<br />
Deb<br />
<br />Deb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-78249912941217931492014-12-11T10:00:00.003-05:002014-12-11T10:00:33.301-05:00Happy Snow Day!It's a happy snow day here in the North. Being a little silly here. When I moved "north" to Ontario, from Vermont, there was much curiosity about how cold and wintry the North in Ontario is. In reality, I find Ontario weather much more mild than Vermont's. So when we get a snowstorm in Ontario, I feel at home. I love the winter and snow and cold. Here the weather is tempered by low elevation, being close to Lake Ontario, and very similar latitude - both on the 43'. When I speak with my Dad back in Vermont, he usually has more harsh weather than I. Another thing I miss about Vermont, is their ability to handle the weather so well. Within an hour of a dusting or challenging weather conditions, Vermonters are out clearing the roads, and making sure it is safe. Not so in Ontario. They wait until the snow storm is finished until work is started. GRRR. And then combined with people who have never seen snow in their lives - have no idea how to drive on snowy roads, driving like there is no snow; it makes for challenging travelling conditions. Luckily I have no need to travel anywhere today.<br />
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And another thing; I am here to challenge a few city myths. Wildlife. Here are a few interesting photos that are from a park about 1 km/ 1/2 mile from my house.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVwy1su4K5c_t8p19QGoG51WAeLunxFiYxlC4eWcjvc_IxNlZo0J1CLJcLzOO2uXumfbB1ZKdKFv09TeNnmDFPYD9gHcuwo6HluLAmMyJxOS7AAHFtkHOZj546W8-JwmImY4M6Pr3h6Ak/s1600/beaver+chomp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVwy1su4K5c_t8p19QGoG51WAeLunxFiYxlC4eWcjvc_IxNlZo0J1CLJcLzOO2uXumfbB1ZKdKFv09TeNnmDFPYD9gHcuwo6HluLAmMyJxOS7AAHFtkHOZj546W8-JwmImY4M6Pr3h6Ak/s1600/beaver+chomp.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beaver Chomp</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZJsmhOT7DiyinamQfb_Mn8TnwbqCt2VSVtdkhjogGvSEnDXnQDSWH2W1uBggXwMUA9Ebl6gdf81E0_n4LuPTfG1A-Z0vtLD4cRglH9nSvSc-c3_6toS5wrggmDoyajUpVO4fFpyWnZ9c/s1600/mr+fox+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZJsmhOT7DiyinamQfb_Mn8TnwbqCt2VSVtdkhjogGvSEnDXnQDSWH2W1uBggXwMUA9Ebl6gdf81E0_n4LuPTfG1A-Z0vtLD4cRglH9nSvSc-c3_6toS5wrggmDoyajUpVO4fFpyWnZ9c/s1600/mr+fox+2.jpg" height="205" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Fox</td></tr>
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Yes, There is a very busy beaver in our local park. He/she is eating all the young and larger trees. They have had to protect most of the trees from its work. And then a very plump Red Fox in the same park. So despite the large city I live in, I also enjoy wildlife on a regular basis. More than I remember from back in Vermont. So maybe Toronto is more wild?!!! </div>
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For a change of scenery, we enjoyed some different food. It's not hard to find in this multicultural city of ours. Fred and I went out for a Dim Sum lunch last weekend. Mmm. </div>
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Except for the chicken feet. :-). </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgltEsHLUh_OOqwaZfVQnWl_3Wb9Sl7n69XnBF5PQytYjC-8ujKQZH-vh9Mlcg-JtnEz48TCPJE7d3HiGL_LFBO9cAQv29_6bumjz9TptQl2yMhMssf6nqu105sqqH_C81d2NAe2FNA_KA/s1600/Fred+enjoying+Chicken+feet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgltEsHLUh_OOqwaZfVQnWl_3Wb9Sl7n69XnBF5PQytYjC-8ujKQZH-vh9Mlcg-JtnEz48TCPJE7d3HiGL_LFBO9cAQv29_6bumjz9TptQl2yMhMssf6nqu105sqqH_C81d2NAe2FNA_KA/s1600/Fred+enjoying+Chicken+feet.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fred enjoying chicken feet at Dim Sum.</td></tr>
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This reminds me to do things differently. We need to shake life up. A song by Sheryl Crow "A Change Would Do You Good" comes to mind. It's time to be brave; walk on the wild side instead of the routine - do the opposite. When we stretch ourselves, we come up larger than we were. New experiences helps us grow.<br />
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On that note... Here's Aruka. A new Tangle. The Diva Challenge for Dec. 8.<br />
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Cheers - Tangle On.<br />
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I enjoy your comments, and connecting with your blogs. Thanks so much for reaching out.Deb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-74040892068952766002014-12-01T22:05:00.000-05:002014-12-02T07:43:45.894-05:00Diva Challenge 196: All Dolled Up... Outside and InsideAll Dolled up is an interesting challenge. I looked for a doll that I could work with. At first I thought it would be different to use a boy doll; but then I recognized that it is the Christmas season, so I turned to an Angel. I like the end result.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Angel doll</td></tr>
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I already gave it away on a Christmas card to an elderly friend. She was pleased to receive art.<br />
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I am working through a book "Artist's Rule" by Christine Paintner Valtner. She talks about a Buddhist concept of "Wabi-sabi" which means beauty as humility, seeing an aesthetic of poverty, loneliness and imperfection. I like how that fits with Zentangle, We create our art for ourselves. And they are never perfect. They are simply beautiful.<br />
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So too is much of nature. Perfection in imperfection. Here is a beautiful picture from the summer of the uneven water edge.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWiq3ah_Gn1QhvhpY7Ybau7AeNDyzb7sDno7CiPACG-x5FjvIhBLwcu1CBtzN_4dlUQrJ2FguqkWoP7sEXh0fZfJ-2IkfFr8jtOjlE6FGRDeE1nYQ1MwmvtdF7dtnTH9U-EYL262kKNog/s1600/water+edge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWiq3ah_Gn1QhvhpY7Ybau7AeNDyzb7sDno7CiPACG-x5FjvIhBLwcu1CBtzN_4dlUQrJ2FguqkWoP7sEXh0fZfJ-2IkfFr8jtOjlE6FGRDeE1nYQ1MwmvtdF7dtnTH9U-EYL262kKNog/s1600/water+edge.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waters Edge</td></tr>
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Enjoy beauty in all its humility.<br />
Tangle on.<br />
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p.s. Thank you for your comments. It is wonderful to hear from people from all over the world.Deb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2121235109678610483.post-80264943328490705122014-11-26T18:08:00.000-05:002014-11-26T18:08:39.292-05:00Quilting and Challenge 195I am in the thick of writing papers for the end of the semester. Life Span and Spiritual Journey, Creativity and spirituality, The Mystic and the Artist, Psychotherapy Counselling Skills, are the courses I have been immersed in this semester. They have all been very enjoyable and stretched my learning. I have a lot more reading to do... thank goodness I don't mind having an ongoing book list!<br />
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And amidst all this I have been trying to do the Diva challenge and some of my own artwork. In fact I attended my first ever sketching group on monday. That was so new! and Relaxing - once I got over worrying whether matter that anyone else needed to be able to tell what I drew! It was the first time I had ever done a drawing class (besides ZEntangle) of any kind.<br />
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So here is the Challenge from Sally Hunter: Draw a pattern in a new mileu - i.e an organic in a grid format; a grid format in a non-grid. So I took two patterns that I turn to on a regular basis and changed them around. I used two patterns I used last week (that's why last weeks tile is in here) in the non-dominant hand challenge. I turned shattuck into a freeform pattern - whoa!; and the printemps into a grid pattern. I always try to do my tile first without looking at other peoples ideas. When I saw my funny looking tile I thought "I can't post that." So then I peaked at a few people's submissions - and then I didn't feel so strange. So here it is.<br />
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And here is my quilting. By the way - I still do long-arm machine quilting... But this piece is an artistic image. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh Majestic Tree.</td></tr>
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Enjoy!<br />
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And Happy Thanksgiving to U.S. friends. Peace to all.<br />
DebDeb Kopeschnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02762050629207957692noreply@blogger.com8