About Art as Therapy
Expressive arts therapy sessions provide a nurturing and supportive environment where individuals can examine and articulate their thoughts and emotions through the process of artmaking. All necessary materials, including paints, clay, and other artistic supplies, will be provided to participants. These sessions are accessible to everyone, as no prior artistic experience is required. Regardless of one’s background in art, participants are encouraged to engage in creative expression as a means of enhancing emotional well-being and facilitating personal growth.
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Class Offerings |
Scroll down for more class offerings.
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Art Expression for Grief and Loss
Class Schedule:
Saturday, February 15 | 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM Friday, February 28 | 2:00 - 4:00 PM Saturday, March 8 | 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM Friday, March 14 | 2:00 - 4:00 PM Friday, April 4 | 2:00 - 4:00 PM Saturday, April 12 |11:00 AM - 1:00 PM $35 per each session The arts can be supportive when experiencing grief and loss. Grief can be the end of a relationship, and/or the loss of a loved one. The act of creating something tangible can serve as a form of expression, and allow your thoughts and feelings to guide and move you through the journey.
You can create your own art through monthly sessions. You can work at your own pace with at least 3 options available. The art materials/examples will be provided. No prior art experience is necessary. No pressure to talk. Just be present, and allow the process of creative writing, collage, painting, and other art forms be a catalyst for self-care. |
In collaboration with the Northeast Georgia Medical Center
Hospice & In-home Palliative Care
We are honored to be in collaboration with the Northeast Georgia Medical Center Hospice and In-Home Palliative Care and to have them as the official sponsor for the class on December 13th. This sponsorship enables us to offer scholarships to individuals interested in attending the session.
In addition, a licensed therapist will be available on-site to provide counseling services, ensuring that participants have access to professional support as needed.
For more information or to inquire about scholarship opportunities, please contact the Quinlan Visual Arts Center at 770-536-2575.
In addition, a licensed therapist will be available on-site to provide counseling services, ensuring that participants have access to professional support as needed.
For more information or to inquire about scholarship opportunities, please contact the Quinlan Visual Arts Center at 770-536-2575.
Art as Therapy for Seniors- Broken to Beautiful
Fridays, February 28, March 14, 21, and 28 | 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM | $40
Participants will create their own mini mosaic to illustrate how symbolically broken things can become beautiful. A time of sharing is encouraged |
About the Instructors
Dawn Columbo
Dawn Columbo received her certification as a registered expressive arts therapist, REAT. Her background includes a bachelor’s degree in art therapy from Piedmont University, and recognition in the National Society of Leadership and Success. She finished a master’s degree from Grand Canyon University, in addiction counseling with a behavioral health emphasis.
Dawn had training in expressive arts therapy at Appalachian State University, and a post-master’s from International University of Professional Studies with 1000 hours post-program supervision. Dawn is a member of the International Expressive Arts Association (IEATA). For the past 11 years, she worked with children and adults at Gateway. Also, the same amount of time with at-risk teens at The Journey Clubhouse. Dawn currently works with individuals and facilitates group processes with creativity as a supportive, person-centered approach at The Quinlan Arts Center. |
Wendee VanOrder
An experienced and compassionate mental health professional with international expertise in individual and group therapy, specializing in art interventions. I create safe, supportive spaces for clients to process trauma, stress, grief, and personal challenges through creative expression. My approach blends traditional mental health practices with art therapy techniques, fostering emotional healing and personal growth.
With a strong background in curriculum development, I have designed and led programs focused on Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), stress reduction, grief/loss support, trauma recovery, and psycho-educational groups. These evidence-based programs are tailored to the unique needs of diverse clients, helping them build resilience and coping strategies. As a department head, I lead and supervise teams of mental health professionals and interns, ensuring efficient operations, staff training, and effective budget management. I also curate art displays and therapeutic events that engage clients and promote creative expression as part of the healing process. Passionate about client success and mental wellness, I am committed to creating a compassionate, collaborative work environment while continuously improving services and outcomes. |