Finding Our Way...through the arts, a wish and some glitter

Last week, the MDAA hosted a fabulous camp called Creative Summer Soul Camp. Instructors Robin O'Neal Kissel and Glenda Miles shared their talents with a modest group of six young, beautiful girls.

Starting out a little shy and reserved, the girls found their place along the long table that was filled with a magical array of all things that go sparkle. By the end of their four day camp week, these girls had not only found new friends, but they also found themselves.

Who knew that some glitter, ribbons and hot glue could create a world of magic, wishes and friendship...but it did just that.

Each day they would enter the MDAA Arts Bungalow and once they stepped over the threshold, they found themselves in "WandWish-Ville". The universal theme was apparent...a little glitter makes that wish a little stronger.

The entire week they centered on their most precious commodity...themselves. Starting with a canvas board that expressed an introduction to who they are and then to creating a journal that told their story. Each day they looked forward to a little quiet reflection with their instructors.

The room was filled with boxes of ideas, thoughts, words, charms and all those things that make a person feel reflective and hopeful.

By day four, wishing wands were in full production. Quietly asking themselves, "what is my wish for myself, my future, my family and my world",  the glued, stamped and created the most magical hopes and dreams for themselves.

They also took a moment to write themselves a letter. It contains a message to themselves that expresses their hopes and desires. Their instructors will mail these letters many years from now. What a gift to see yourself at 12 years old, through your own eyes.

Robin and Glenda ended their session with a walk outside to the group's favorite tree and hung wishes written on muslin...to flow in the wind and be energized by the strength of a maple. This writer caught one of the girls tap her wishing wand to her wish...just for extra measure.

In a world filled with overachievers, competition, movers and shakers and pressure, this beautiful camp was successful because, quite simply, there were no right or wrong answers. These bright and lovely young girls blossomed through the creative process. They shined in finding the words that defined a piece of them. They shared in a unique experience.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2wUb4XDDJXg&feature=share  Enjoy this video put together by intructor Glenda Miles.