Mindful Art Center

Neuroplasticity is, most simply defined, the brain’s ability to change and adapt.

Billions of neurons in our brain connect to each other, forming a network of trillions of pathways between them, each transmitting signals and information in order to help us function and survive. These connections are forged by our learned experiences of the world, and every single time a pathway is used, it becomes physically stronger. Signals pass through these stronger pathways with ease, using much less energy than it takes to pass through the weaker pathways. This is how habits, reactions, associations, and beliefs are built.

Negative experiences can strengthen pathways in the brain that may have once helped us to fit in and survive in the world. Yet, as our environments and priorities evolve, those pathways often become more hurtful than helpful, now showing up as anxieties and self-limiting beliefs. More positive pathways may still be weak, and since those weaker pathways take more energy from the brain for signals to pass through, it can take concentrated and consistent effort to build their strength. But when we do put in that effort, eventually our brains will naturally take the more positive pathway, meaning a more positive mindset, more peaceful reactions, healthier habits, and overall a happier life.

This is the power of “neuroplasticity,” the real, researched, physical process that occurs in our brains when we learn through new experiences. The Mindful Art Center aims to provide you with support in your practice of strengthening those happy and healthy neural pathways.

“Kelly has a magical way of sharing her gift that supports and encourages and allows participants to explore their own thoughts.

She guides with care and love and helps to maintain a sense of calm within the group. Participants explore their own feelings, emotions and thoughts as she leads through open ended activities that allow people the freedom to go where the energy takes them. Kelly supports sharing and conversation that is meaningful and deeply supportive. I feel blessed that Kelly has a gift she is able to share so lovingly and would recommend her services without hesitation and with heartfelt gratitude towards her.”

~ Jennifer Knowles. South Burlington VT

Free Printables

Mandala Coloring Pages

Make-Your-Own Mandalas

Guided Journal Prompts

Books

Art Therapy with Transgender and Gender-Expansive Children and Teenagers – Kelly Darke and Shannon Scott-Miller

Publishing in 2025 – Art and Mindfulness – Kelly Darke

Publishing in 2025 – Gratitude for Our Goals: Guided Journal – Grace Kelly

Art Kits and Merch Shop

Try out new art mediums yourself, with guided instructions and meditations, and without the commitment to a whole new hobby.

Brighten your life with our colorful merch. T-shirts, tote-bags, stickers, mugs, and more!

Gender Diversity Training

These trainings are designed to provide your team with relevant, accurate, and actionable information to ensure everyone feels seen and safe in your community and workplace.

Facilitated by Shannon Scott-Miller, MA, ATR-BC