I was going through my notes from school and I ran across this quote which I thought was applicable for the times: 

"...we are all fellow travelers...We are in this together, there is no therapist and no person immune to the inherent tragedies of existence. Sharing the essence of the human condition becomes the bedrock of the work of the existential psychotherapist." 

Focus on the here and now, and awareness of the present moment...that is the key.

an existentialist view from-                                                                                                                         Wedding, D. & Corsini, R., (2013). Current Psychologies (10th ed.).  Belmont,CA : Brooks/Cole

During these stressful times of COVID, it is important to remember to stay present and focus on what we know. There is so much uncertainty that it makes it easy to spiral into the depths of the unknown, the uncontrollable vortex of life leading and fueling anxiety. It is paramount to remember that others share the same existence with you on this unknown journey, you're not alone.

Below are a couple art pieces that I did using the acrylic pour method. For me, this method is an exercise in relinquishing control and letting things happen as they might. Something that is often challenging for me to do-let go of control. This process forces one to rely on gravity and the science of liquid and movement across a flat surface.  It is somewhat manipulative, but I impress, SOMEWHAT.

During times of uncertainty where control is scarce, this may be a good form of creativity. The results/image continue to change as the paint oozes across the canvas until it finally dries, solidifies. I especially enjoy watching the colors mix, change, and witness cells surfacing due to the science of oil and water dancing together in the paint.

The process itself is quick, it does however, take a while to dry, offering a lesson in patience.

As a therapeutic tool, it offers a path into the unconscious invoking thoughts as one meditates over the images both after and during the process.

Swimming in the Turbulence of Life. (2019)

by DJWhitney

Acrylic & Resin, 9x12 canvas

Unconscious Garden. (2019)

 by DJWhitney 

Acrylic & Resin , 9x12 canvas