ASTAR Art in Franschhoek with Ashleigh

Ashleigh Temple-Camp, who has just completed the ASTAR Art Teacher Course, is launching a ‘Creative Beginnings’ course this October, designed to open the door to the creative spirit. The course will be presented at the Artemis Barn, belonging to artists Andrea Desmond-Smith and Kobus Stander, and is suitable for beginners and advanced participants.

ASTARis a non-judgmental approach to art-making in which the creative process is the focus, rather than the art products. There are no planned outcomes or expectations. Participants are encouraged to work spontaneously and to trust their creative process. They are invited to express themselves honestly and to honour all that is made with acceptance.

At the start of each session, the facilitator guides the group through an inspiration process. This creates a focus for the art-making activity. These processes are designed to bypass the critical, controlling mind so that participants are able to let go of fear and surrender to the creative process. "This has been an absolute awakening. Ifeel alive like never before," said a student of the process.

Course designer, Lindy Solomon says "There are great healing benefits when you express yourself creatively in a safe, non-judgmental space. At the heart of the ASTARpractice, is self-acceptance which is a fundamental key to healing. Rediscovering and honouring your creative self is essential in the journey towards wholeness. Creative expression awakens the life-force within and enlivens us. The art-making process is often relaxing and restorative as it engages the ‘don’t think’ mind and encourages playfulness. Learning to trust the process and find intuitive solutions in art-making encourages the same attitude in life."

Ashleigh is further offering a variety of children’s art and craft classes in the school holidays and next year plans to run a colour energy course once a week for eight weeks. Contact Ashleigh on 083 2085608 or email temple-camp@vodamail.co.za.