Internationally acclaimed earth artist Day Schildkret teaches a daily therapeutic ritual that anyone can do, no matter where they are, to help them soothe their grief. In a special evening event, Schildkret returns to Lakewood to teach this mindful art practice that provides beauty and space for grief, remembrance and reflection.
Art and Ritual: An Evening with Day Schildkret
Saturday, August 3 | 6-9 PM
Join us in our historic Memorial Chapel as Schildkret, in conversation with Cathy Wurzer, shares the profound discovery he made during his own grief journey. He transformed grief into art using natural objects like feathers, leaves, berries and flowers to create impermanent mandalas. Schildkret found that beholding the smallest of things and creating new beauty from them, nourished his spirit and brought him strength after losing his father.
Following the talk in the Chapel, there will be a reception, book signing, and interactive mandala-making activity in Lakewood’s new Welcome Center.
Mandalas at Lakewood
For several years, Schildkret created large-scale installations at Lakewood, showcasing a tapestry of color and beauty. This year, Schildkret’s weekend at Lakewood will focus on deeper, more intimate conversations and connections.
Amanda Luke, Lakewood Community Programs Manager, notes that the evening will be engaging and informative for everyone, including those who have seen Day’s large-scale installations as well as guests new to his work. “Experiencing his art in person reveals the beauty and soothing nature of Day’s innovative 7-Step Morning Altars practice. Even if you haven’t attended our mandala programs, the evening lecture will leave you inspired and give you the tools to begin this therapeutic practice for yourself.”
Hands-on Workshops
Sunday, August 4
10 AM & 2 PM
On Sunday, Schildkret will lead two semi-private, three-hour, hands-on workshops, guiding participants through the 7-step Morning Altars process. Throughout this reflective experience, students will explore Lakewood’s grounds to gather leaves, flowers, stones and berries and other materials, then use the earth as a canvas to create a one-of-a-kind mandala dedicated to someone or something that is loved and missed. Undoubtedly, participants will leave the workshop with a sense of calm, peace and meaning, along with a mindful practice they can continue daily.
Join us for both events
Both the evening talk and the workshops offer meaningful ways to honor memories and find beauty in the natural world around us, enriching our lives with creativity and contemplation. We hope you will join us as we welcome Day Schildkret back and embark on a journey of artistic exploration and personal connection.
Learn more and register for these weekend events.
