CHARLOTTE REZNICK, PhD
Art is in my DNA. My grandfather painted murals in churches in Ukraine, and several family members are artists of varying sorts. Although discouraged for decades by critical statements from a painting professor at university, I started painting some years ago for fun. Like one of my child client’s might, I found the experience freeing and cathartic. As a playful meditation, I get lost in the colors I’m mixing and creating. Now I incorporate my passion for travel and am inspired to paint from photos I’ve taken that touch my heart. My love of art, meditation, travel, and psychology mesh here. With children and teens, we delve into the mystical world of imagination and intuition. Using tools of art, meditation, mindfulness, and imagery, my kids connect to their true self, not the mask they often show the world. Our goal is to heal the damage that has been inflicted upon them by their inner and outer worlds. Within the safe heart-felt space of my office (and sometimes still via tele-therapy) kids develop self-compassion, empathy, and intuition, helping to create a more positive future. Seeing from the heart’s eye brings out the artist in most. Whether in drawing, painting, or writing, art has a significant presence in our sessions – as it does in my personal life for my own health and healing.
Freedom and Flow in Venice
(Oil on Canvas Board, 12.5” x 18.25”)
“For Freedom and Flow in Venice” it had been over 40 years since I first fell in love with Venice. It’s magic, mystery, and other worldliness took my breath away. I avoided returning because I was so in awe I couldn’t bear to return and have my dream broken. Then last spring I had the opportunity to paint there for a full week. I couldn’t not go. Though Venice wasn’t different, I was. Drawn into its deep secrets that never quite surface, I found painting in Venice heaven. Our teacher knew all the back alleys, quiet canals, and places tourists don’t flock to. This painting represents a new way of expressing my inner world. More open and confident, yet softer and wilder. Larger, bolder in nature and stroke, bringing out a part of me I rarely let surface. Similar to the way my work with kids often develops. Helping them dig deep inside and bring out a new vision of who they are, who they hope to be. A step in their heart’s health and healing, and here in this painting, a step in my artistic expansion.
https://www.imageryforkids.com