Convergence: Training Social Artists

To solve the problems of the world we must first bridge the gaps between ourselves.

  • Our world is reeling in ongoing crisis.

  • War continues to ravage our planet and people.

  • Economic imbalance and corporate scandals expose greed and injustice.

How, we ask, can we be a part of the solution?
How do we bridge the gaps that exist between those of different races, ages, faiths and beliefs, genders, sexual identities, political orientation and financial abilities?
How do we move beyond polarization to mutual understanding, respect, collaboration and hope?

Envision training yourself as a Social Artist

Your canvas is no less than your self, your relationships, your workplace and your communities. Social Art requires painting with a full palette of colors. In order to get out of our limited individual cultural and organizational norms, we must create with an aliveness that integrates body, mind, heart and spirit. In the long term, it may mean no less than a radical redistribution of power, ownership and resources. In the short term, it may mean changing ourselves, our relationships, and the groups in which we participate

Training Format & Content

  • Small group sessions introducing the principles and practices of Matrix Leadership: relational, inclusive leadership that builds connections and values each person

  • Experiential exercises and large group sessions in prejudice reduction & multicultural awareness

  • Movement, dance, poetry and other expressive arts creating connection, celebrating diversity & possibility

In this training we will create a context for diverse groups of people to come together (converge) in order to:

  • Connect: to get to know each other as fellow humans

  • Communicate about our impact on each other

  • Learn about the systems of oppression & injustice that separate us

  • Value our differences and diversity as essential to our evolution

  • Generate a ground of understanding, compassion, collaboration and hope

  • Celebrate diversity, possibility and change

  • Create a better future for our children, our communities and ourselves

The Convergence: Training Social Artists workshop provides an excellent foundation for the full Matrix Foundation Training.

Who Should Participate:

We invite and welcome everyone from all communities.

Locations

Convergence: Training Social Artists has been offered in Boulder, CO; Chicago, IL and Atlanta, GA.

Atlanta, GA: Dates tba in fall of 2006 and 2007.

Please contact us if you would like to sponsor this workshop in your location.

See the Schedule of Upcoming Trainings for dates and locations and the registration page to register.

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