Aplomb Circles
Trauma-Informed Creative Groups
Registration open!
Join our free group art workshops designed to offer grounding, connection, and creative healing alongside others with shared lived experiences. Come as you are, no prior art-making experience is needed. Participation does not require sharing personal stories. These sessions are not therapy or mental health support groups but we have many resources listed here. If you relate to multiple circles, you are welcome to sign up for more than one.
Please register with the form each month so we can prepare your spot.
Grief
Circle
Led by Marissa Thibeau, this circle is for individuals experiencing grief related to death, loss, or significant life changes, including those carrying complex, layered, or ongoing grief that may not follow a clear timeline or resolution. This space honors the many ways grief can be held, expressed, and lived with over time. Come as you are and try expressive drawing techniques.
Domestic + Sexual Abuse Survivors Circle
Led by Jennifer Jarvis, this circle is for individuals who have experienced domestic violence, sexual abuse, or coercive harm, and who are seeking a creative space centered on safety, self expression, and reclaiming agency through art. This guided abstract acrylic painting workshop is open to anyone ready find to peace through the process, no experience required.
Chronic Illness + Neurodivergent Circle
Led by Marisa Companion, this circle is for individuals living with chronic illness, disability, neurodivergence, or ongoing health related challenges, including those navigating fluctuating capacity, sensory differences, or changes in identity and daily life. Participants will be invited to use music to lead expressive art journeys.
Cancer Healing
Circle
Led by Danielle Festa, this circle is for individuals impacted by cancer, including those in treatment, post treatment, living with recurrence, or navigating the long term physical, emotional, or identity related effects of a cancer diagnosis. This space offers a creative environment for connection, reflection, and self expression alongside others with shared lived experiences. Enjoy guided or self led art-making at any level.
Queer Resilience
Circle
Led by by Jade Ruscio. Zines have a long history in queer spaces as tools for visibility, mutual support, and amplifying voices that don’t always get heard. Each month, Jade Ruscio will guide participants to create paper zines that share stories, express identity, and build community through self-published art. No prior art experience required.
Veterans, Nurses, First Responders + Federal Officers
Circle
Led by Aliah Marden, this circle is for veterans, nurses and first responders, including those who are currently serving or who have left their roles. This includes individuals living with PTSD or ongoing stress responses, and offers a grounding, creative space alongside others with shared service-related experiences. Using Nerographic drawing techniques, participants will push a marble around to draw free-flowing lines, and then color the shapes to create a finished piece. No prior art experience required.
We so are grateful for the sponsorship of these programs! Our cancer circle is sponsored by The Wentworth-Douglass Foundation and the Dover Rotary. The remaining circles are sponsored by The Eppes-Jefrferson Foundation, Inc.
