Explore the innovative research studies that foster new sensorimotor experiences and merge practices from contemplative traditions. We will be highlighting and presenting the work of prolific scholars and clay practitioners Cornelia Elbrecht and Michael Franklin.

This event will include an opportunity to engage in the clay experiences offered and guided by the presenters. No research or art experience needed, only a passion or interest is required.

Lunch will be provided between morning and afternoon sessions. Space and materials may be limited. Please RSVP as soon as possible to secure a space. A detailed schedule will follow confirmation. Please contact Senior Admin. Coordinator, Tracy Gamble for questions.

• FREE CEs
• Lunch provided

Morning Session:

Exploring the Implicit Memory Systems Through Haptic Perception with Clay

Cornelia Elbrecht, AThR, SATh, SEP, ANZACATA, IEATA, IACAET

Director of the Institute for Sensorimotor Art Therapy

Memories are commonly associated with autobiographical events. However, such remembered stories represent only the tip of the iceberg. Implicit memories held in the body dominate the first preverbal years of life and all traumatic events. Clay Field Therapy offers a unique option to connect with the haptic developmental building blocks that shape the physiological identity in children. The workshop will focus on touch explorations of the implicit memory systems. In the therapeutic environment at the Clay Field these can foster new sensorimotor experiences that enhance self-esteem, empowerment, and restoration of developmental deficits. 

Afternoon Session:

Mixing Thoughts with Space: Taming a Wild Mind with Art and Meditation

Michael A. Franklin, PhD, ATR-BC

Professor, Clinical Mental Health Counseling: Transpersonal Art Therapy

MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Naropa University 

When art is combined with practices from contemplative traditions, opportunities emerge to embrace adversity and discover personal resiliency and self-compassion. For example, meditation trains us to become the witness of our thoughts while art allows us to manifest and see the content of our thoughts. In this presentation and studio workshop, we will learn about meditation, empathy, and self-compassion techniques for mixing thoughts with space in order to remain present with challenging beliefs and sore places within.

This event will include an opportunity to engage in the clay experiences offered and guided by the presenters. No research or art experience needed only a passion or interest is required. Lunch will be provided between the morning and afternoon sessions. Space and materials may be limited, please RSVP as soon as possible to secure a space. A detailed schedule will follow confirmation. Please contact Senior Admin. Coordinator, Tracy Gamble for questions.