Crone Art Therapy and The Wisdom of the Crone
In ancient history, the term “Crone” was associated with reverence, symbolizing wisdom and respect. The word originates from “crown,” denoting the honor given to elder women for their knowledge and experiences. Similarly, “hag” evolved from “hagia,” as seen in Hagia Sophia, which translates to divine wisdom. However, patriarchal societies distorted these words to suggest malevolent witches, aiming to diminish the power and voice of older women, thus reinforcing male dominance. Despite these attempts, numerous cultures still venerate their wise women, acknowledging their profound contributions and insights. Thus in today’s society we need to explore this significant, divine and powerful feminine archetype. Thus Crone Art Therapy is a fun and interesting place to start.Â
Issues Encountered by Women in Later Stages of Life
In today’s society, older women frequently face a variety of obstacles. They are often overlooked and undervalued, with cultural norms prioritizing youthful appearances – a criterion not similarly applied to men. As women experience life transitions like children leaving home and retirement, they confront significant shifts. Many mature women feel unseen in a culture that prizes a youthful look, which is a shallow standard that fails to appreciate the true richness of women’s lives. This societal pressure can negatively impact their physical and mental well-being, often resulting in lower self-esteem.
Loneliness becomes a common issue as social connections evolve and long-standing relationships may fade. Isolation can be worsened by health problems that restrict travel and social activities. Mature women face mental health challenges akin to those experienced by people of all ages, including stress, grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, and the need to process adverse life experiences. The online crone art therapy group Guelph aims to address these challenges, providing a supportive community where their experiences and wisdom are recognized and celebrated.
Carl Jung and the Archetype of the Crone
Carl Jung, a renowned psychologist and fan of art therapy introduced the concept of archetypes—universal symbols and themes embedded within our collective unconscious. Archetypes manifest within us and appear in dreams. One such archetype is the Crone or Wise Mother, present in both men and women. Jung believed the wise mother archetype represents wisdom, guidance, and nurturing, often symbolized in nature by elements like the moon and bodies of water.
The crone archetype features traits such as wisdom, confidence, decisiveness, and courage. These are the types of women historically persecuted for their strong opinions. They are no longer submissive maidens; they are powerful figures who do not tolerate foolishness. The online crone art therapy group Guelph delves into these archetypes, helping participants connect with their inner wise mother by reflecting on their life experiences, embracing the divine feminine, and expressing their creativity.
The Benefits of Art Therapy and Crone Art Therapy
Art therapy is a potent form of psychotherapy that utilizes creativity to promote emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. It enables individuals to convey their experiences and emotions, providing relief from stress and a pathway to healing and self-discovery. Artistic skill is not a prerequisite for benefiting from art therapy; one simply needs to be willing to participate in artistic activities.
By engaging in activities such as painting, drawing, collage, or sculpting, individuals can express their inner thoughts and feelings, which may be challenging to verbalize. The online crone art therapy group in Guelph offers a secure and supportive atmosphere for older women to partake in art therapy, fostering self-discovery, empowerment, and communal connection. Participants not only develop artistic abilities but also resilience and a renewed sense of purpose, embracing their identity as wise women.
Details of the Online Crone Art Therapy Group
WHO: This online group consists of six mature women who are either menopausal or beyond. Each participant is screened to ensure the group meets their needs. Most participants are spiritual women seeking a positive, supportive environment to explore creativity and the divine feminine.
WHAT IS THE STRUCTURE OF THE GROUP? In the first online session, we introduce ourselves and share our journeys. Each week begins with a check-in followed by a profound video exploring the sacred crone archetype. This revered symbol of wisdom and transformation guides our exploration of the sacred feminine within. The art therapist then presents the weekly art exercise, leading to a 40-minute creative session. Participants create their artwork, expressing their experiences, feelings, and divine feminine wisdom. We then gather in a sharing circle where each person explains the meaning behind their art. The art therapist’s insightful questions and the group’s enriching discussions foster a deeper connection to our inner wise mother and the collective feminine spirit. The art is valued for its expression rather than aesthetics, so no artistic skill is required.
WHAT’S NEEDED? Participants need a computer equipped with speakers and enabled audio, a reliable internet connection, and the Zoom app. A private workspace stocked with art supplies is essential. These supplies can include pencils, paints, pastels, collage materials, air-dry clay, or markers. Participants get to select the materials they prefer to use.
WHEN: This group runs four weeks in a row. Dates vary, please click here to learn more.
Details of Each Week
During the first week, participants will embark on a sacred journey, learning about the crone archetype. They will tap in to the profound, divine collective feminine wisdom and express it through art therapy.
During the second week, participants are invited to delve deeper into their life experiences and values that have shaped their unique, soulful selves. This week provides an empowering opportunity to use art-making as a means to celebrate and honor the wisdom that forms the foundation of their identity. |
During Week Three, learn how to embrace your personal power and authenticity, celebrating the unique wisdom of your inner wise mother through vibrant and expressive art-making.
In Week Four, Reflect on how to cultivate a life that fully embodies the wisdom and strength of your inner wise mother. Through the power of art, you can unlock personal insights and inspiration, empowering you to live a life that is true to your deepest values and celebrates your unique feminine spirit.
What are the Next Steps to Join Crone Art Therapy
- Contact us below.
- Set up a zoom chat to see if the group is a good fit for your needs.
- Once you have determine the group is a good fit, the art therapist will send consent forms.
- Fill in the consent forms and prepay to reserve your spot.
