Restore + Explore: Reflective Writing and Intuitive Collage

Join us for a mindful walk among the sculptures of the North Vista where stillness invites us to slow down and focus on elegant rows of graceful figures, frozen in time. Thoughtful writing prompts will help us bring our own meaningful memories to the surface. Returning to the classroom, we’ll create collages that bring our experiences to life, opening pathways for self-discovery and future growth.

Let’s visit the celebrated Betye Saar exhibit, where found objects take center stage in the artist’s luminous assemblage Drifting Toward Twilight. Inspired by Saar’s ability to transform everyday materials into deeply meaningful works, we’ll use a playful, unconventional approach to reflect and write about personal objects and heirlooms that hold significance in our own lives. Back in the classroom, we’ll work with natural materials and images to create collages that invite quiet insights to surface.

Step through the doors of The Rose Hills Foundation Conservatory for Botanical Science into a world of natural wonder and abundance. Starting with a mindful walk through this 16,000 square-foot treasure, we’ll take in the beauty that surrounds us. Through reflective writing, we'll express gratitude for the gifts already present in our lives—the relationships, experiences, and moments that bring us joy. Inspired by our time in this botanical paradise, we'll create collages focused on doorways representing what we wish to invite into our lives.

It’s true. Our chance to love, heal, help, or simply be exists only in the now. Take a break from the busyness of the holidays and walk with us to the serenity of the Japanese Garden, where we’ll explore the power of the present moment. We’ll notice and savor the small, beautiful details we may normally overlook. With introspective writing prompts and intuitive collage-creation, we’ll zoom in on what’s present for us, seizing the grace of the here and now.

Join us in the Desert Garden as we observe the delicate, intricate patterns found in succulents, cacti, and other resilient plants. Drawing inspiration from this natural artistry, we’ll experience a watercolor meditation inspired by tree rings, then engage with creative writing prompts and collage, honoring the beauty and strength of the natural world. As Lao Tzu reminds us, “Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.” Together, we’ll attune to the earth’s steady rhythm for clarity and direction.

Join us on an adventure to the Children’s Garden, where a sense of wonder invites us to reconnect with the playful parts of ourselves. Inspired by this whimsical space, we’ll create a collage and engage with journaling prompts and creative exercises that awaken curiosity and delight. We’ll explore fresh perspectives that will uplift and inspire us—a reminder, as Carl Jung said, that true creativity is born of play.

Take a peaceful walk with us through the Chinese Garden, whose beauty offers an invitation to connect with our emotions. Through imaginative journaling, we’ll find fresh ways to express our inner selves. Back in the classroom, we’ll create collages that give shape to these reflections, using images and additional reflective writing to celebrate our inner landscapes.

Venture into the beauty of the Jungle Garden, where nature's raw creativity flourishes. Surrounded by tangled vines, vibrant blooms, and lush undergrowth, we'll explore imaginative writing prompts that invite us to explore the uncharted territory of our own stories. Returning to the classroom, we'll work with the metaphor of the jungle itself as we create collages through the act of tearing rather than cutting. Like the jungle garden where beauty emerges from unexpected places, our torn collages will reveal hidden wisdom.