How Art Teaches Us to Embrace the Discomfort of Vulnerability with Dr. Jamie English

Art and Self with Cindy Ingram

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How Art Teaches Us to Embrace the Discomfort of Vulnerability with Dr. Jamie English

Cindy Ingram

Dec 04, 2023

In this episode, Dr. Jamie English, a licensed professional counselor who specializes in body acceptance, and I engage in a deep exploration of two artworks side-by-side: Self-Portrait Naked with my Mother II by Chantal Joffe and The Opening by Aleah Chapin. Both artworks are featured in my new book, Art Is About Being Whole: A Memoir. The conversation delves into body image, vulnerability, and the relationship between a mother and daughter portrayed in the art. We analyze the body language, symbolism, and emotions conveyed in each painting, drawing connections to personal experiences and societal expectations. The discussion unfolds into a reflection on self-acceptance, the journey toward embracing one's flaws, and the power of art in facilitating introspection.

To sign up for the Art as Oracle workshop, visit this link.

To join the next Art Connection Circle, visit this link.

To see the artworks and links for the episode, visit the show notes at this link.

Discussion about this podcast

Art and Self with Cindy Ingram

Art is more than a creative outlet or something to study in art history. Art is a catalyst for self-improvement, a tool for understanding the human spirit, and a way to find your path. Through reflections, art conversations, and in-depth explorations of artworks, this podcast might just change your life.

Join your host, Cindy Ingram—the founder of Art Class Curator, the Curated Connections Library, and the Art and Self Connection Circle—as she explores the life connections waiting to be discovered in works of art.

We live in a world that overstimulates our senses but often ignores our needs. With an unending feed of bright lights, loud noises, and information both true and false, it feels like the scroll never ends. Despite the fact that our feeds are constantly live and updating, our souls are not being fed. We need creative thinking, true communication, and genuine connection to ourselves and others—that’s where art comes in.

Art and Self is both an art and a self development podcast about using art as a way to find your truth, know yourself, and discover the path you were meant to walk in life. Remember, the most important part of an artwork is you.

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