Why I started Present Sense

I started Present Sense because I wanted a place to do the things I loved with other people: make art, write, practice mindfulness, and create community. These practices have brought so much richness and meaning to my life, and I am thrilled to have the chance to give back some of what I have received.

Making art is one way of waking up and being fully alive, and being a fully-alive, aware human being is at the heart of everything we do here. Classes support you in claiming your personal creative process and using it to cultivate self awareness and your connection to others. No special skills are required to attend classes, as artistic expression is a natural ability in each of us. You will be invited to use this ability to listen deeply to your own voice and nurture and express what is alive in you.

Though there is nothing "safe" about art, we do strive to make this a place where it is safe for you to experiment and where all the parts of yourself are important. We also hope that creating a space where different disciplines are taught side by side will foster valuable cross-fertilization. Surprise and serendipity are important parts of learning.

From the beginning this has been a place that has grown out of the amazing community of people in which I am fortunate to live.  I love having a space to bring together the energy of all the learners - teachers and students - I know. I hope you will join us!