Bemis School of Art Partners with District 11 for Art Expression Sessions

In the fall of 2020, the Fine Arts Center’s Bemis School of Art proudly partnered with Colorado Springs District 11 Schools to develop a new virtual resource for educators designed to provide stress relief during this unprecedented time working as an educator through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Produced by D11 for their internal network, the video series features Kimberlie Griffis, art therapist and Bemis School of Art instructor guiding viewers through a combination of relaxation techniques with hands on artmaking activities.

The series has now been made accessible to the public for anyone interested in viewing. Enjoy!

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Kimberlie Griffis, MA-AT – Artist Statement

Kim is a native from Colorado Springs and has a true passion and belief that art can be used as an effective healing modality, both through viewing and creating art. She has a Masters Degree in Counseling and Art Therapy and currently facilitates weekly art expression groups for veterans and active military personnel at Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center in Colorado Springs. Kim has facilitated numerous art healing workshops for Finding Our Voices, a local non-profit that provides support to adult survivors of sexual abuse and has served on their board of directors. She also runs a private art therapy practice from her studio at Cottonwood Center for the Arts.

Art making has been an important aspect of Kim’s personal journey and has found it highly beneficial to the majority of her clients. Kim has also utilized a variety of traditional and alternative healing modalities, including art therapy, throughout her own healing process from childhood abuse and emotional trauma.