Emma Freeman & Douglas BeasleySacred Presence: A Mindful Mixed Media Art Retreat

biography

I’m Emma Freeman, a Contemplative, Joyful Mixed Media Artist and Teaching Artist living in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin.

I love exploring slow, deep, meaningful and fun creative expression. Right now I am inspired by textiles that carry stories, slow stitching done by hand, poetry, expressive painting, art journaling and the marks of being human that we can see through the power of our unique touch. I find making art to be an incredible adventure and a journey of self-discovery, learning and healing that awakens possibilities, hope, wonder, happiness and joy within me. I find art making to also be a beautiful bridge to connect with other people and the earth. Creativity has supported my well-being and mental health throughout my life, helping me process emotions and heal from painful experiences including addiction, trauma, intense anxiety, depression and obsessive compulsive behaviors.

I practice living my life rooted in peace, curiosity, compassion, kindness, gratitude, joy and love every day. I am enthusiastic and optimistic and love to laugh, be silly and playful, feel deeply, appreciate nature, get excited about beautiful colors and patterns, dance, sing, dress in artsy outfits, listen to heartfelt stories about peoples lives and learn new things. I’m also deeply inspired by Buddhist teachings and incorporate many of them into my life, my art and my teaching.

I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Studio Art, Philosophy and Visual Studies from Alverno College in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and have worked in the arts for 25 years as a professional artist, educator and community builder. I have taught art classes, workshops and retreats to students around the world both online and in-person in partnership with art centers, museums, schools, community education programs and other art educators. I absolutely love teaching and sharing my passion for art making and creative expression.

I’m sober and a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) as well.

Thank you for being here. I hope you find something that inspires you on your creative journey!

Douglas Beasley’s personal vision explores the spiritual aspects of people and place and is concerned with how the sacred is recognized and expressed in everyday life. He has a BFA from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and has had several books of his photography published worldwide.

As founder and director of Vision Quest Photo Workshops, Doug provides workshops around the world that emphasize personal expression and creative vision over the mechanics of camera use. He believes in helping each student find their own voice rather than making anonymous ‘pretty pictures’. Doug has recently become the owner and publisher of Shots Magazine, a printed quarterly of eclectic B&W photography.

Doug continues to explore the notion of what is sacred in his photography and in his own life. He lives in a passive solar home surrounded by trees in Saint Paul, MN and when not out traveling the world he can be found tending his Japanese gardens, at his cabin the woods or enjoying a strong cup of coffee while listening to loud music. Personal heroes include Jimi Hendrix, the Dalai Lama, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and whoever invented the espresso machine.