THE RENDER EFFECT
Our unique, evidence-based approach sets you up for an experience that is relaxing and invigorating, supportive and liberating, mindful and reflective.
Here at Render, the main focus is on the process of creating, not the final product.
That’s why we spend just enough time on material instruction to make sure you can feel pretty comfortable getting started. We design all of our experiences to be engaging and manageable no matter how much or how little experience you have with making art.
It might feel a little scary to not have all of the answers up front, but in the end you’ll realize there is no right way to be creative. You’ll probably end up with something we never would have thought of, and that fuels and inspires our whole community.
Directing your own experience also creates opportunity for personal learning and self-awareness that is unique to you. That's when the good stuff happens for your mental health.
We NEVER judge, critique, or assign aesthetic value to art created in our space, and we expect everyone who joins us to do the same. Think of it this way; would you ever turn to your neighbor in yoga class and correct their down dog pose? Same rules apply.
By emphasizing the act of creating, we help you move past an inner critic and tap into the moments of freedom, surprise, self-awareness, and joy that arise in the process.
OUR APPROACH
WHAT TO EXPECT
We offer a few distinct experiences, but from the moment you step into our space, you can expect to be welcomed, encouraged, and valued for the creative force that you are.
Every class starts with an overview and orientation to the art materials and process, so that you feel comfortable working largely on your own. The amount of time on demos and orientation is slightly flexible depending on questions that come up, so don't worry if that feels short!
You will then have designated time to independently create something with the materials we have provided. An Art Therapist will be on hand to answer questions, refill materials, or provide any support that's needed. Listed prices cover everything you need (which we provide) so all you need to do is get yourself to the studio!
During the art-making portion of classes, artists are asked to keep talking to a minimum (unless you have a question for one of our staff) so that everyone in the space can sink into their process and access those amazing benefits of intentional creative work. We always end with a guided reflection and discussion to help you digest your creative experience and carry the experience with you beyond the studio.
WHY IT WORKS
Research has shown that engaging in art making for as little as 45 minutes can improve mood, decrease stress, and positively impact feelings of capability. Creative engagement can also lead to improved physical outcomes. These are all good things, and we’re here to help you easily access them.
It’s important to note that having a largely self-directed artistic process is a crucial factor in experiencing those health benefits.
Our structure and approach facilitates a unique flow experience and gives you the opportunity to access the health benefits that are dependent on the elements of problem solving and activation of multiple brain regions. Our mindfulness tools help you reflect on your experience in a fun and easy way.
Developing a regular habit of creative engagement is also important in reaping the benefits. That’s why we’ve designed our studio experiences to be accessible and enjoyable in one or two hours, with lots of scheduling flexibility and no extra material costs or prep time required. We hope you can join us more frequently, for shorter periods of time, and still maintain your regular weekly routine.