"Who are you?' said the Caterpillar…"I- hardly know, Sir, just at present," Alice replied rather shyly, "at least I know who I was when I got up this morning, but I think I must have been changed several times since then."” -Lewis Carroll, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland

Transitions…

In William Bridge’s book, Transitions, he explores the idea that transition is the natural process of disorientation and reorientation that marks the turning points on the path of growth. He says, “First there is an ending, then a beginning, with an important empty or fallow time in between. That is the order of things in nature. Leaf-fall, winter, and then the green emerges again from the brown wood.” Passages in our lives carry a similar rhythm. As we transition into spring, we are in an emergent time.

Join Us for Our Spring Art & Writing Retreat, Only a Few Spots Left…

Lost inside the great swell
we seek our point of equilibrium
sometimes it is the space between
that offers us the greatest gifts.”
– Lisa Kagan

Art of Transformation: Exploring Life Milestones Through Art & Story

Detail from Metamorphosis, Mixed Media by Lisa Kagan

Explore an important life milestone through utilizing drawing, painting, collage and creative writing to create your own narrative images. Discover how the creative process can support you as you navigate an important juncture in your life, or prepare to usher in a time of change. This retreat offers you the opportunity to focus on a turning point that is especially relevant and meaningful for you. Potential topics include: the loss of a loved one, getting married, becoming a parent or grandparent, celebrating a significant anniversary or birthday, moving, changing jobs, and discovering one’s passion and purpose. No previous art or writing experience is necessary.

 
Date & Time: Saturday April 13th, 1-5:30pm
Location: Family Heirloom Arts Studio, SE Portland (in the Woodstock neighborhood)
Cost: $80  
Registration: Contact Lisa Kagan at Lisa@FamilyHeirloomArts.com or call (503) 347-1391. This retreat is offered in collaboration with Portland Women Writers and is designed for women of all ages and life stages.
 

“Taking time for myself, reconnecting with the creative process, and finding common ground with other women were highlights for me.”
-Sarah, workshop participant

Emergence, Poetry & Art by Lisa Kagan

I created this illustrated collection of poetry as a way to explore the concept of individual and collective metamorphosis. This book is inspired by the idea that all cells in the human body are renewed every seven years, traversing my seven-year journey through the inner landscape of curiosity, reflection and discovery. You can preview highlights from this collection and purchase a copy of this book on our website.

Life Milestone Books

With a focus on pivotal life junctures, books about life milestones honor powerful periods of change and transformation. At Family Heirloom Arts, we help people navigate the transitions in their lives through the creation of illustrated heirloom books. Contact us to get started on your own life milestone project.

“I want to express special gratitude as working with you has helped to make this year a memorable one. We really appreciated all of your sincere caring, superb direction and support in completing and celebrating the heritage and life of Pat. It has now been three and a half years since her death, I am starting to read a few pages of the book everyday, it brings back loving memories—just perfect.”

– George Copa, Heirloom Book Client

Oral History Interviews
Writing & Editing
Book Layout & Design