workshops
the human library project
The Artist's Way workshop hosted by Divan expressive arts center is a transformative journey that guides participants through a 12-week creative process aimed at unblocking artistic potential and nurturing self-discovery. Based on Julia Cameron's renowned book, "The Artist's Way," the workshop employs a combination of exercises, prompts, and group discussions to ignite and sustain creative inspiration.
Led by experienced facilitator, Julia Carver, the workshop encourages participants to explore their inner creativity, confront self-doubt, and overcome creative barriers through a series of tasks, including morning pages (daily journaling), artist dates (solo excursions to nurture creativity), and weekly group sessions.
By providing a supportive environment, Divan expressive arts center offers a safe space for individuals to explore their artistic aspirations, rediscover their passions, and overcome obstacles hindering their creative expression. Through this structured program, participants tap into their creative wellsprings, gain clarity about their artistic visions, and develop practical tools for maintaining a consistent creative practice beyond the workshop.
The Artist's Way workshop at Divan expressive arts center serves as a catalyst for personal growth, fostering a community of artists and creative individuals dedicated to nurturing their artistic journeys and embracing their inherent creativity.
The human library project hosted by Divan Expressive Arts Center is aimed to create a unique platform for storytelling and fostering empathy. Participants are invited to engage in "conversations" with human "books" who share their personal narratives, experiences, and expertise. Through this innovative approach, individuals have the opportunity to borrow "books" (representing diverse backgrounds, cultures, or identities) and interact with them, asking questions and learning from their perspectives.
Divan expressive arts center provides a safe and inclusive space for these conversations to unfold, encouraging dialogue that challenges stereotypes, promoting understanding, and celebrates diversity. Attendees experience the power of storytelling and human connection, gaining insights into the lived experiences of others while promoting empathy, tolerance, and mutual respect within the community. The project fosters an environment of open-mindedness, appreciation for differences, and a deeper understanding of the human experience through the art of storytelling.
the artist’s way workshop
game night
The Book Club conversations at Divan Expressive Art Center offer an enriching and engaging platform for literary enthusiasts and community members to come together and discuss a diverse range of books. Led by passionate moderators or book lovers, these gatherings encourage thought-provoking discussions, critical thinking, and the exchange of ideas among participants.
The Book Club sessions typically involve the selection of a book that a member will share their thoughts about, and the main theme of the book will be presented and opened up for conversation. Meetings are structured around lively and inclusive discussions where attendees share their perspectives, interpretations, and emotions evoked by the chosen literature. These conversations delve into various themes, character analyses, plot intricacies, and the social or cultural implications of the stories.
The welcoming atmosphere at Divan Expressive Art Center fosters an environment of respect and open-mindedness, allowing participants to express their thoughts freely and explore differing opinions. These gatherings not only encouraged a deeper appreciation for literature but also facilitate connections among individuals with diverse backgrounds and viewpoints.
The Book Club conversations at Divan Expressive Art Center serve as a catalyst for intellectual stimulation, fostering a sense of community, and promoting a shared love for reading and storytelling. By offering a space for meaningful discussions and the celebration of literature, these gatherings enrich the cultural and intellectual fabric of the community.
Game Night, hosted by Divan Expressive Arts Center is an engaging and inclusive event designed to bring together members of the community in a fun and interactive setting. The event aims to foster social connections, promote camaraderie, and create a sense of belonging among participants.
During Game Night, individuals of all ages and backgrounds gather to enjoy a variety of board games, card games, and group activities facilitated by the center. The diverse selection of games offered something for everyone, encouraging friendly competition, teamwork, and laughter.
The atmosphere at Divan Expressive Arts Center is welcoming and relaxed, providing a space where attendees can bond over shared interests, strategize together, and build new friendships. Game Night serves as a platform for people to step out of their routines, unwind, and engage in enjoyable activities while connecting with others in the community.
Through the simple joy of playing games, Divan's Game Night promotes a sense of community spirit, encourages positive social interactions, and provides an opportunity for individuals to come together, interact, and create lasting connections in a lively and enjoyable environment.
book club
mommy and me therapeutic expressive arts group
The non-clinical therapeutic expressive art one-day mini retreats hosted by Divan Expressive Art Center are immersive and rejuvenating experiences aimed at promoting self-discovery, relaxation, and personal growth through artistic expression. These retreats provide participants with a safe and supportive environment to explore various art modalities as tools for self-care and holistic well-being.
Led by experienced facilitator, Julia Carver, trained in the expressive arts, these mini retreats offer a combination of creative activities such as painting, drawing, movement, writing, and mindfulness exercises. Participants are encouraged to engage in these expressive practices as a means of tapping into their inner creativity, reducing stress, and gaining deeper insights into their emotions and personal narratives.
The retreats are designed to cater to individuals seeking a break from their daily routines, offering a day of self-reflection, artistic exploration, and connection with like-minded individuals. Participants have the opportunity to disconnect from the pressures of everyday life and immerse themselves in a supportive and non-judgmental space conducive to personal expression and introspection.
Divan Expressive Art Center's non-clinical therapeutic expressive art one-day mini retreats aim to nurture the mind, body, and spirit, allowing attendees to recharge and reconnect with themselves through the transformative power of the arts. These retreats serve as a refreshing and inspiring way for individuals to explore their creativity, foster self-awareness, and experience a sense of renewal in a welcoming and inclusive setting.
The Mommy and Me Therapeutic Expressive Art groups hosted by Divan Expressive Art Center provides a nurturing and supportive environment for mothers and their children to engage in creative expression as a means of bonding and healing. These specialized groups are designed to foster deeper connections between mothers and their kids while utilizing the power of expressive arts.
Led by experienced facilitators, these sessions incorporate various art forms such as painting, drawing, sculpting, and movement to encourage communication, emotional exploration, nervous system co-regulation, and understanding between mothers and their children. Through these expressive activities, participants are able to convey thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a non-verbal and non-threatening manner, fostering a sense of safety and comfort.
The groups also aim to strengthen the parent-child relationship by providing a space for shared creativity, mutual understanding, and emotional connection. Mothers and children have the opportunity to explore their emotions, build trust, and develop healthy coping mechanisms in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
Divan Expressive Art Center's Mommy and Me Therapeutic Expressive Art groups serve as a valuable resource for families, offering a non-clinical therapeutic outlet that facilitates emotional expression, strengthens bonds, and enhances communication skills between mothers and their children. The program emphasizes the importance of creative expression as a tool for promoting healing, resilience, and deeper connections within the family unit.
non-clinical therapeutic expressive art mini retreats
philosophy discussion groups
Divan Expressive Arts hosts one-on-one, trauma-informed, non-clinical therapeutic expressive art facilitation, offering personalized sessions tailored to individuals seeking a healing and expressive outlet. These sessions are designed for those navigating trauma, stress, or seeking personal growth through artistic expression in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
Led by Julia Carver, experienced and trained facilitator in expressive arts therapy, these one-on-one sessions utilize various creative mediums like painting, drawing, movement, writing, and other artistic tools as therapeutic outlets. The approach was sensitive to trauma-informed practices, emphasizing safety, choice, and empowering the individual's creative journey.
Participants engage in personalized activities aimed at self-reflection, emotional exploration, and self-expression, allowing them to process emotions, express feelings, and find healing through creative expression. The facilitators provided gentle guidance, encouraging individuals to explore their inner experiences while fostering a sense of safety and empowerment.
Divan Expressive Arts Center's one-on-one, trauma-informed, non-clinical therapeutic expressive art facilitation offers a confidential space for individuals to navigate their emotional landscapes, build resilience, and facilitate personal growth through the transformative power of art. These sessions are tailored to the unique needs of each individual, promoting self-awareness, healing, and a sense of empowerment on their personal journey toward well-being.
The philosophy discussion group hosted by Divan Expressive Arts Center provides a stimulating platform for individuals passionate about exploring ideas, exchanging perspectives, and engaging in intellectual discourse. The group sessions are curated to encourage thoughtful discussions on various philosophical topics, inviting participants to delve into the realms of ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, and other branches of philosophy.
Led by moderators well-versed in philosophy or with a keen interest in the subject, these gatherings offer a welcoming and inclusive space where attendees can share their thoughts, challenge ideas, and explore diverse philosophical concepts. Discussions often revolved around selected readings, philosophical dilemmas, or contemporary issues, sparking conversations that encourage critical thinking and deeper contemplation.
The atmosphere at Divan Expressive Arts Center during these philosophy discussion groups fosters an environment of open-mindedness, mutual respect, and intellectual curiosity. Participants have the opportunity to engage in civil debates, question assumptions, and broaden their understanding of complex philosophical concepts through dialogue and active participation.
The philosophy discussion group at Divan Expressive Arts Center serves as a hub for individuals seeking to explore the depth and breadth of philosophical ideas, fostering a community where diverse perspectives are valued, and intellectual growth is encouraged. These gatherings provide a space for the exchange of ideas, the exploration of fundamental questions, and the cultivation of a deeper appreciation for the complexities of philosophical inquiry.
individual therapeutic non-clinical expressive arts sessions
card making workshop
The open community food kitchen hosted by Divan Expressive Arts Center once a month serves as a compassionate initiative to address food insecurity and foster community support. This event provides a welcoming space where individuals from diverse backgrounds can gather and enjoy a nutritious meal, regardless of their financial situation.
Led by volunteers and staff members, the community food kitchen aims to offer a warm and inviting environment where people could share a meal and socialize in a supportive setting. The menu featured wholesome and well-balanced dishes prepared with care and attention to dietary needs and preferences.
Divan Expressive Arts Center's commitment to community welfare and inclusivity is demonstrated through this monthly event, which not only provides nourishment but also encouraged social interaction, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging among attendees. Beyond the provision of meals, the food kitchen promotes dignity and respect, ensuring that everyone feels valued and welcomed.
The open community food kitchen at Divan Expressive Arts Center will stand as a beacon of support and hope, offering a space where individuals can come together, share a meal, and build connections within their community. It exemplifies the center's dedication to making a positive impact by addressing immediate needs and fostering a sense of unity and compassion among those it served.
The card making and writing workshop hosted by Divan Expressive Arts Center aims to spread positivity and support to individuals facing mental health challenges by creating heartfelt and personalized cards. The workshop provides a creative platform for participants to craft visually appealing and emotionally uplifting cards accompanied by thoughtful messages, aiming to bring moments of joy and encouragement to those going through difficult times.
Led by facilitators with expertise in expressive arts and mental health, the workshop guides attendees in making handmade cards using various artistic materials such as paper, colors, decorative elements, and writing supplies. Participants were encouraged to tap into their creativity to design cards filled with messages of hope, empathy, and encouragement for individuals struggling with mental health issues.
The focus of the workshop was not only on the artistic process of card making but also on the impactful act of conveying compassion through written words. Attendees were guided in writing heartfelt messages that aimed to uplift spirits, provide comfort, and remind recipients that they are not alone in their struggles.
Divan Expressive Arts Center's card making and writing workshop serves as a tangible way to spread positivity and support to individuals facing mental health challenges. By creating personalized cards filled with heartfelt messages, participants contributed to a collective effort of bringing light and encouragement to those experiencing dark moments, promoting empathy, connection, and hope within the community.
open community kitchen
jam sessions
The Artsy Thursday art workshop at Divan Expressive Art Center is an engaging and recurring event that takes place each Thursday. This workshop invites art enthusiasts, beginners, and experienced artists alike to come together and explore their creativity in a supportive and inspiring environment.
Led by skilled instructors passionate about the arts, Artsy Thursday offers a variety of art forms and techniques for participants to delve into. The sessions cover a wide range of artistic mediums, including painting, drawing, mixed media, sculpture, and more. Each Thursday brings a new focus or theme, providing attendees with an opportunity to experiment and develop their artistic skills.
The workshop fosters a relaxed and encouraging atmosphere, where participants are free to express themselves and explore their artistic visions. Whether individuals seek to refine their techniques or simply unwind through artistic expression, Artsy Thursday caters to diverse interests and skill levels.
Guidance and support from the instructors are readily available, allowing attendees to receive feedback, learn new methods, and share ideas with fellow participants. The emphasis is not just on creating art but also on the process of self-discovery and personal expression.
The Artsy Thursday art workshop at Divan Expressive Art Center serves as a space for creativity to flourish, providing a weekly opportunity for individuals to engage in artmaking, connect with like-minded individuals, and immerse themselves in a world of artistic exploration and self-expression.
At the Divan Expressive Arts Center, a dynamic and spirited music jam session is coming soon! Musicians and music enthusiasts of different ages and backgrounds will gather in a spacious and inviting studio. The atmosphere buzzes with energy as people bring their instruments—guitars, drums, keyboards, and various others—preparing for an evening of musical collaboration.
The room is alive with the sound of music as individuals begin tuning their instruments, creating a harmonious cacophony of melodies and rhythms. Some participants form impromptu groups, while others take solo spots, experimenting and improvising with their instruments. Each note played and each beat struck resonates throughout the space, creating a rich and diverse musical tapestry.
Facilitators move around the room, encouraging participants, offering suggestions, and fostering a sense of camaraderie among the musicians. They provide a supportive environment for everyone to express themselves freely, whether through solos, collaborative performances, or simply jamming along with others.
Our hope is that conversations about music theory, techniques, and personal inspirations fill the air, as individuals share their musical experiences and learn from one another. The session becomes a melting pot of genres—rock, jazz, folk, and more—as participants blend their styles and experiment with new sounds.
As the jam session progresses, the room pulsates with creativity and unity, showcasing the power of music to bring people together. The shared passion for music transcends differences, creating a space where individuals connect through their love for rhythm and melody, forging new musical connections and enjoying the spontaneous fusion of musical expressions at Divan Expressive Arts Center.
artsy tuesday
children’s monthly book club
The collaboration between Divan Expressive Art Center in Sarajevo and the local schools in Visoko resulted in a heartwarming and enriching exchange of creativity and cultural interaction.
Students from Visoko arrived in Sarajevo to perform a special outdoor presentation in the garden of Divan Expressive Arts Center. The vibrant performance showcased the talents and cultural heritage of the Visoko students, creating a lively atmosphere filled with music, dance, and artistic expression. The audience, comprising participants from the center and the local community, were captivated by the energetic and inspiring performance. Following the performance, everyone gathered for a shared lunch, fostering a sense of camaraderie and community. This provided an opportunity for the students and the hosts to bond, share experiences, and celebrate the cultural exchange.
Afterward, the Visoko students were welcomed into Divan Expressive Art Center's creative space to engage in music sessions led by volunteers from the center. The students participated in music activities, learning, and collaborating with the volunteers, exploring various instruments and rhythms. Subsequently, the students immerse themselves in visual art activities guided by the center's facilitators. They expressed their creativity through painting, drawing, and other art forms, allowing their imaginations to soar and translating their experiences into colorful and expressive artworks.
The collaboration between Divan Expressive Art Center and the schools from Visoko facilitated a day of cultural exchange, artistic exploration, and meaningful connections. It provided a platform for the students to showcase their talents, experience new forms of creative expression, and build lasting memories through shared artistic experiences. This collaboration exemplified the power of art and cultural exchange in fostering understanding, unity, and appreciation among diverse communities.
At Divan Expressive Arts Center, the monthly kids' book club discussion coupled with expressive art activities is currently underway, fostering a love for reading and creative expression among young participants. Children from various backgrounds gather in a welcoming space, excitedly discussing the selected book of the month – which they will read together during group time.
The atmosphere is vibrant with curiosity and enthusiasm as they share their thoughts on characters, plot twists, and their favorite parts of the story. Following the engaging book discussion, the kids transition into an expressive art activity inspired by the themes or characters from the book. They are provided with a variety of art supplies—such as paints, markers, clay, or collage materials—to bring their interpretations and imagination to life.
Under the guidance of facilitators, the young participants immerse themselves in the artistic process, expressing their feelings and ideas through their creations. Some draw vibrant illustrations, while others sculpt characters or scenes from the story, allowing their creativity to flow freely.Throughout the session, the children engage in conversation, sharing insights about how the book inspired their artistic creations. This dual approach—combining literary discussion with hands-on art activities—encourages critical thinking, creative exploration, and a deeper understanding of the book's themes.
The book club discussion with an expressive art activity at Divan Expressive Arts Center serves as a holistic platform for children to develop their love for reading, enhance their artistic skills, and cultivate their imagination in a fun and interactive environment. It fosters a sense of camaraderie, creativity, and a deeper appreciation for literature through the lens of artistic expression.
visoko/sarajevo children’s actors guild
narrative therapy
The Silent Book Club project hosted by Divan Expressive Arts Center is currently providing a welcoming space for introverts to come together and enjoy quiet social engagement amidst the bustling world. This unique initiative caters to individuals who prefer a quieter, more introspective social setting. Attendees bring their favorite books and gather in a comfortable and tranquil environment – complete with comfortable couches and chairs, warm blankets, and tea that are specially crafted for their soothing qualities. The concept revolves around silent reading sessions, where participants enjoy the pleasure of reading in the company of others without the pressure of conversation.
Introverts relish the opportunity to recharge their energies while still benefiting from the presence of others. The Silent Book Club at Divan Expressive Arts Center fosters a sense of community without the need for constant social interaction. It allows individuals to find solace in shared silence and camaraderie among fellow book enthusiasts. Although the setting is quiet, there is a gentle sense of connection among participants. Occasionally, there may be moments of shared glances or subtle gestures, fostering a sense of understanding and companionship among introverts who appreciate the quieter, more contemplative atmosphere.
The Silent Book Club project serves as a haven for introverts, offering a space where they can enjoy the company of like-minded individuals, find respite from the noise of the outside world, and revel in the joy of reading in a serene and welcoming environment provided by Divan Expressive Arts Center.
At Divan Expressive Art Center, a non-clinical narrative therapy workshop is currently taking place, offering participants a transformative journey of self-exploration and empowerment. Led by experienced facilitators trained in narrative therapy techniques, the workshop creates a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore their personal narratives. Attendees engage in discussions and activities aimed at reshaping their stories, focusing on strengths, resilience, and alternative perspectives rather than solely on problems or challenges. Through various creative exercises such as storytelling, journaling, and artistic expression, participants uncover the power of their narratives in shaping their identities. They learn to deconstruct unhelpful narratives and reconstruct empowering ones, gaining a deeper understanding of themselves and their lived experiences.
Facilitators guide the process, encouraging reflection, active listening, and the sharing of stories within the group. Participants are empowered to reframe their narratives, transforming limiting beliefs and finding new ways to perceive and respond to their experiences. The non-clinical narrative therapy workshop at Divan Expressive Art Center serves as a catalyst for personal growth, fostering a sense of agency and resilience among participants. It provides a space for individuals to rewrite their stories, fostering a renewed sense of self-awareness, empowerment, and the possibility of positive change through the art of narrative transformation.
silent book club