‘Drawing Through Memory Using Line and Colour' with Carrie Stanley

Context

‘Drawing Through Memory Using Line and Colour' is a drawing technique developed by Carrie, which she uses in her practice to create large scale works. It incorporates automatic mark making following the engagement with the therapeutic technique ‘EMDR’ (Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprogramming). In Carrie’s words:

‘This workshop is based on my own practice of automatic mark making as a response to my experience of complicated grief through the death of my late husband. ‘Complicated Grief’ is a term based on the effects of trauma felt both physically and psychologically. Much of my recent practice has been informed by weekly EMDR sessions. Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprogramming is a therapy which uses bilateral stimulation to reduce the impact of trauma memories. Within my sessions grief 'points' are located within

the body; Areas of static held memory, which we then work on releasing using visualisation techniques. It's in these mindful almost meditative headspaces that change can happen. In my work I use a half-present ‘doodle state' to initiate what could be called 'grief release work' and it's from this space that our workshop will grow and form.’

To facilitate ascertaining the head space of ‘grief release work’ we will use continuous line drawing, both on it's own and integrated within ink pouring techniques and on both dry and wet surfaces. Carrie will introduce words as prompts for some automatic mark making before we focus on specific grief memories.

Session outline

Prior to the session you are asked to consider a grief memory specific to you. This can be whatever you feel comfortable with, or whatever you want to work with. You do not have to share what this memory is, however if you do want to talk about it, please ensure you are happy to do so. It could be abstract or a direct memory, whatever you feel most comfortable with. During the session Carrie will lead us through a few exercises asking us to consider where we feel this memory in our bodies. We will then engage in drawing using this grief memory to consider:

The shape this makes

The form this takes

What colour is it?

Carrie will lead us through a series of exercises, building to an immersive drawing experience, with an emphasis on engaging in the experience of drawing in this way.

Throes of Grief participants took part in the session which ran remotely online, led by Carrie.