“By making us stop for a moment, poetry gives us an opportunity to think about ourselves as human beings on this planet and what we mean to each other.” — Rita Dove

You are invited to dip into a safe creative circle in which you'll experience the impact of the poem-making process as a roadmap to enhance and foster insights and wellness. The poems will be accessible, with no need to worry about analyzing anything! Poetry and poem-making are compelling and effective tools in the journey toward wholeness. They are a language below the surface to view the world through a broader lens. Poetic Medicine is based on 20 years of groundbreaking work, from The Institute for Poetic Medicine and Poetry as a Tool for Wellness, integrating poetry and poem-making into mental health and wellness programs.

Our sessions will include reflections on quotes, poems, writing prompts, and time to write and share what is speaking to you, if you wish to share. No prior experience with poetry or writing is necessary. Bring your curiosity and allow your unique voice to expand in this interactive respectful circle of learners. You are welcome to come to one session or join us for a series! $35 per session or $90 for 3 sessions. Email Lisa at [email protected]. Inquire about last-minute registrations.

Lisa Mer (she/her) is a certified spiritual guide, trained facilitator for SoulCollage® and Poetic Medicine's Poetry as a Tool for Wellness. Lisa is also a certified Veriditas labyrinth facilitator as well as offering Sand & Symbol, a spiritual sand tray practice. She is steeped in Parker Palmer's Courage and Renewal work and served in public education for over 30 years. She believes that symbols, images, and metaphors are powerful ways to give voice to our inner wisdom. Explore more at Home | Soul Symbol Minneapolis.

Our Twin Cities area and state have been under attack.  We look for ways we can help and sustain ourselves. 

This Benefit SoulCollage® Gathering is one response—rooted in community, contribution, and the quiet power of creativity.

Creativity is a one way to:

· Process what words can’t, so fear and grief don’t turn into paralysis.

· Stay human and connected, even when systems feel overwhelming.

· Restore inner clarity, which helps us act with intention rather than reactivity.

By participating, you are helping in multiple ways:

· Your donation will directly support the Immigrant Defense Network.

· Your presence strengthens a collective space of care and solidarity.

· Your creative act becomes a form of resilience—fuel for sustained, meaningful action.

SoulCollage® is a gentle, intuitive collage process using images—no artistic experience required. It invites each of us to listen inwardly, honor what’s arising, and remember our capacity to imagine change.

Please join us on Sunday, March 1, 1-3 pm.

RSVP to Lisa Mer at [email protected].

Minimum recommended donation: $40

Lisa Mer (she/her) is a certified spiritual guide, trained facilitator for SoulCollage® and Poetic Medicine's Poetry as a Tool for Wellness. Lisa is also a certified Veriditas labyrinth facilitator as well as offering Sand & Symbol, a spiritual sand tray practice. She is steeped in Parker Palmer's Courage and Renewal work and served in public education for over 30 years. She believes that symbols, images, and metaphors are powerful ways to give voice to our inner wisdom. Explore more at Home | Soul Symbol Minneapolis.

You are invited to spend time with other creatives (we are all artists) at a monthly open studio time at Starcell Studio. Bring a project to work on and/or be inspired to play, experiment and create with abundant supplies and a diversity of materials available. Enjoy communion with others as stories, skills and presence are shared. Be the inspiration, receive inspiration, and know that your gift of presence matters. Open studio time is the third Sunday of every month from 1 to 3 pm. There is no charge, but registration is appreciated one week ahead. Please let Jane know 24 hours ahead if you are registered and unable to come. Questions? Email Jane Cooksey at [email protected].

Jane Cooksey was an elementary teacher by profession for many years. She is now an artist by choice. Jane loves sharing her skills and creating in community. See more at Instagram @harvestbyjane and www.harvestbyjane.com.