September 23, 2005

by Cathy Salser, Executive Director

We’re pleased to announce that Sandra Mueller, a painter, interactive media pioneer and longtime friend of AWBW, will become AWBW’s “Community Arts Advocate,” and offer her unique BeArtrageous Creativity sessions each month to our general community of AWBW supporters and friends, beginning with programs specifically designed for women.



So far, over 100 women in the past fifteen months have participated in BeArtrageous workshops at the AWBW studios, experimenting with painting, collage, and mask-making while supporting the programs of AWBBW.  Because of this success, we have decided to make her offering a regular First Saturday monthly event!

An AWBW-trained Windows leader with more than 15 years prior experience facilitating and building real and online communities, Sandra has adapted AWBW Projects so women of any “age and stage” can explore creative expression together in a safe and playful setting.

Sandra is particularly inspired to work with non-artists, who are often surprised and delighted by what they create. She explains, “Many people are amazed to see the beauty that surfaces in their creations. For me, it’s the same creative energy that we each use in living our daily lives – so, it’s a treat to witness this process. I consider myself a doula of imagination.”

We’re particularly excited to share Sandra’s Workshops. They allow our wonderful community of advocates, friends, and supporters to personaly explore the creative process that we traditionally offer to our AWBW clientele, which provides a deeper understanding and direct experience of the services that AWBW provides. We are thankful to Sandra for bringing this gift beyond the domestic violence setting.

Please join us for our inaugural “First Saturday” which will be on November 5th at 10 AM to 1 PM at the AWBW Venice studios. Sandra will guide us in creating colorful ‘Gratitude Mandalas.” Cost is $45 inclusive of all materials (and you’ll be amazed at the diversity of paints and collage materials) and a light breakfast tea. All proceeds will benefit the AWBW programs. For more information or to reserve a space, email Sandra . No prior art experience is needed, just bring your playful self!

“...we witness each others’ greatness and through it our own greatness...”
—BeArtrageous workshop participant

“This was my first time since childhood that I'd actually played with color and paint.”
—BeArtrageous Workshop participant