The Arts

We will develop our creative and artistic capacities through workshops in music, dance, theater, creative writing, photography and other visual arts. The goal is not to become an expert in any of these areas (however, perhaps you will discover a talent/interest that you end up taking up in depth!) but to expand our imaginations and modes of expression.

We will also learn about the role the arts have played in social change efforts. This includes the ways in which change that is provoked through the cultural sphere often precedes change taking place in the political sphere, as well as the importance of the arts in regards to maintaining morale and resilience, and retaining cultural traditions, pride and knowledge.

The Purposes of this area are:

1. To experience and honor ourselves as creative beings–there is no such thing as a person who is not creative!
2. To understand the central role of the arts in creating change
3. To foster our ability to think outside the box and improvise
4. To develop increased empathy, emotional intelligence, and emotional resiliency