Hi, I’m Monica.
I’m a therapeutic Process art facilitator
In 2024 I opened Moods, a private art studio that focuses on creating Process art, a simple style of art that focuses on being in the moment with no agenda or goals. I wanted other women to experience the power of this type of art, like I had, for emotional balance and well-being.
I offer private sessions, monthly open studio times and women’s discussion groups.
The following is a story about two girls I know
Meet Sally. Sally isn’t happy.
Sally used to enjoy life, now she’s stressed and moody. Work, kids, chores, repeat, week after week.
Sally wonders sometimes if this is all there is. Her friends seem happy, why isn’t she?
Sally doesn’t even know what to do for fun anymore.
Sally has never heard of Moods art studio.
Poor Sally….
Meet Charis. Charis is very happy!
Charis used to be like Sally, but then she discovered Moods art studio and realized that playing with paint was fun!
Art helped her express herself, play, relax connect and try new things. She felt lighter and more joyful. Being creative gave her life more meaning.
Charis carries that creative joy with her everywhere she goes.
Yay! Good for you Charis!
You don’t have to feel like Sally…. creating art can help!
Remember when you felt like this little girl?
When being creative was sheer fun? When your imagination was unlimited!
Blowing bubbles, making art, building forts outside, playing with bugs, jumping in mudpuddles, climbing trees, setting up your dollhouse, making up silly games with friends.
There were no rules, no plan and no agenda.
Somewhere between childhood and adulthood we stop playing.
We turn into responsible hardworking adults and we box up that playful little girl and put her on a shelf in the back of the closet. Years later, we are confused as to why we may be feeling snappy, angry, over-emotional, sad, tired or bored.
That playful little girl is begging you to remember her! To pull her off the shelf to play, have fun, laugh and enjoy life like you used too.
Obviously, playing all day isn’t reality.
We are adults and we have responsibilities.
That’s not what I’m talking about. I’m talking about resurrecting that lighthearted,
happy little girl you used to be.
The girl with the flower in her hair, a skip in her step and joy in her heart.
Playing is just as important to adults as it is for children.
Sometimes we get locked into the same types of adult play. Shopping, hair, nails, dinner, movies, drinks with friends. Those types of play are fine, but after awhile can feel monotonous.
I wanted to create another option, a place to go where women can do art with no concern for talent, experiment with supplies and connect with other women.
A place for women to “play” without purpose.
No previous art experience necessary!
We paint, collage, write, draw, color and have simple fun. During art making we are not concerned about making anything good or important, we let go of the pressure of having any talent. This allows us to relax, cope with stress, express ourselves, boost our creativity and sharpen our sense of humor. Let’s get that playful little girl out of her dusty box!
“It’s not about being good at creativity, it’s about
creativity being good for you” -James McCrae
Are you ready to try a creative play session with me?
I promise, you will feel lighter after just one session!
Hop around my site, look at some photos, learn more about me if you need.
When you are ready, fill out the form on the contact page. I will get back to you promptly.
I look forward to seeing you in the studio! Have a wonderful day.
If you feel you need to read more about art for mental health,
here’s what the internet has to say:
Being creative offers numerous benefits, including improved mental and emotional health, enhanced problem-solving abilities, and increased cognitive function. It also allows for self-expression, stress relief, and a sense of accomplishment.
Mental and Emotional Health:
- Reduced stress and anxiety: Creative activities provide a healthy outlet for emotions and can help individuals cope with stress and anxiety, according to Diversus Health.
- Improved mood and emotional well-being: Engaging in creative pursuits can elevate mood, increase positive emotions, and reduce symptoms of depression, says WellPower.
- Enhanced self-awareness and expression: Creativity allows individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them, according to the National Youth Council of Ireland.
- Increased resilience: Creative activities can help individuals develop qualities like open-mindedness, curiosity, and persistence, which are crucial for navigating life’s challenges, notes WellPower.
Cognitive Function and Problem-Solving:
- Enhanced problem-solving skills: Creative thinking allows individuals to approach problems from different perspectives, explore innovative solutions, and think outside the box, according to the Montessori School of Downtown.
- Increased cognitive function: Creative activities stimulate the brain and can improve cognitive functions like memory, attention, and analytical skills, according to Forbes.
- Improved adaptability and resilience: Creative individuals tend to be more flexible, adaptable, and resilient, as they are comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty, says Access CBT.