EXPLORING CREATIVITY, MINDFULNESS, AND CONNECTION by Molly Evans
This past fall, Art from the Inside (AFTI) proudly launched its inaugural 12-week Art & Wellness Fellowship at two Minnesota State Correctional Facilities: MCF-Shakopee and MCF-Faribault. The program curriculum, written by Christopheraaron Deans, Artist and Educator, and Molly Evans, Mindfulness Coach and Facilitator, focused on two-dimensional design with a variety of artistic mediums integrated with Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction principles and exercises, founded and developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn, Ph.D. Over the course of the fellowship, 15 women and 20 men dedicated two hours each week to discovering the powerful impact of creativity and mindfulness in transforming their lives. Art from the Inside founder, Antonio Espinosa, was present at every session providing vision and encouragement to all of the artists inspiring hope in the possibility for healing and transformation for everyone.
CREATIVITY is a multifaceted aspect of the human experience that encompasses not just artistic expression, but also problem-solving, innovative thinking, and personal exploration. During the 12-Week fellowship, AFTI Fellows explored how they could incorporate creativity into their daily lives through simple practices such as mindful journaling, graphite drawing, watercolor painting, and acrylic painting. Through this self-discovery the fellows identified new talents and opportunities to express their unique identities.
MINDFULNESS, often confused with relaxation, is the practice of being present in the moment, without judgment. It involves tuning into one’s thoughts and feelings while fostering a sense of awareness and acceptance. During the fellowship, AFTI fellows learned how to incorporate mindfulness into their daily lives by practicing a variety of techniques such as deep breathing, body-scan meditations, visualization exercises, and even mindful eating. These practices helped them establish a daily mindfulness routine and enhanced their emotional regulation, empowering them to navigate their thoughts and feelings with greater clarity and self-compassion.
By committing to weekly gatherings, AFTI Fellows actively built relationships and forged CONNECTION with one another, facilitators, and influential figures such as state legislators, Department of Corrections staff, and Attorney General Keith Ellison, who visited the program to hear from the artists about the impact of the program. Creating an environment that emphasizes creativity, mindfulness, and trust is essential for promoting individual and collective healing and well-being. These key elements help strengthen connections among AFTI Fellows and play a vital role in developing an inclusive and supportive community, which celebrates diversity and encourages personal development.