Abigail Rota
Contributing Writer
Throughout this past year alone, and specifically in our Boston community, there has been tremendous emotional upheaval.
Whether a personal loss has impacted your life, or the Boston Marathon terrorist attack has put a feeling of fear within you, all members of our community have experienced overwhelming emotions of loss, suffering, and pain. Although unable to historically change what has happened, the community is able to come together to show one another that they are not alone.
This past May, the Simmons community was directly impacted by the sudden and tragic loss of our student, Andrea Jameson, after her first year. Andrea had a passion for arts, and in her honor, the Simmons community and surrounding schools, friends, and family members is invited to join in an Arts, Strength and Healing workshop. Here, people can express their emotions in ways never thought possible, allowing to begin or continue to heal from losses. We will willingly participate in multiple arts activities such as signing, dancing, music, arts and crafts, and an open mic night for those feeling compelled to share their talents or join in the audience. Even if you don’t have a background in arts, you are still encouraged to come, as you might discover a new release of emotions and an enjoyable new way to express yourself.
Feel free to try your hand at one worksop or come to all four events. Refreshments will be served.
On Monday Nov. 11, there will be Vinyasa Yoga and Mindfulness 6 – 8 p.m. in SOM501. Join in for 75 minutes of yoga followed by 15 minutes of Savasana relaxation instructed by Jessica Emilsarb. Through creative movement, mindful breath, and fun pop music, Jessica hopes that you will find a sense of peace and happiness within your own body.
On Tuesday Nov. 12, “Leaving the River” gallery opening will be from 6 – 7 p.m. on the Palace Road Building’s fourth floor.
Here is your chance to meet artist Evelyn Berde. Evelyn took five years to create this installation of art that reflects on her childhood in Boston’s own West End. Evelyn incorporates her connection to people and their stories, as well as her surrounding in everyday life. Her goal is to inspire others to find their strength to survive loss, suffering, depression, and feelings of hopelessness in today’s unpredictable world.
Tuesday Nov. 12 will have the Hands on Art Workshop from 7 – 9 p.m. in P304.
Follow Evelyn Berde as she acts as a guide to enable participants to find their own language of expressing a feeling, a memory, or a story that they want to represent in an artistic form. Wonderful materials, music, and food will be provided to nurture your inner creative spirit. When we create, we are able to relate.
On Wednesday Nov. 13 thre will be a musical performance from 6 – 8 p.m. in SOM501.
Just recently named, Female Performer of the Year in New England 2012, Boston Music Award Nominee for Singer/Songwriter of the year, Sarah Blacker was recently called “one of the brighter artists to grab our attention.” Sarah is a Board-Certified Music Therapist and Berklee College of Music graduate. Come join Sarah Blacker for a live performance of her original songs and a therapeutic co-active music making experience.
Thursday Nov. 14, there will be an open mic night from 6 – 8 p.m. in SOM501.
Like to sing? Dance? SLAM? Or maybe it just so happens that the Arts and Healing workshops have inspired you to put yourself out there. If any of these apply to you, or if you want to enjoy the show, attend the Open Mic Night as we host our final event of the workshop! If you would like to be put on the list to perform or speak, please email Abigail Rota at rotaa@simmons.edu.
