Calming Totemic Watercolors

Calming Totemic Watercolors with Abstract Artist, Clarissa Castillo-Ramsey

Thursday, August 14th 5:30-7pm

Hosted at the studio of Arpi Krikorian – Arcadia, CA

All are welcome. No art experience needed.

Reconnect with yourself through color, flow, and creative freedom.

Overdue for some “you” time?

Join us for a unique and soothing art experience that’s less about perfection—and more about presence.

In this joyful, meditative workshop, you’ll be guided to create your own Totemic Watercolor piece: a playful, intuitive stacking of colorful shapes that helps you tap into your inner wisdom and artistic spirit.

Whether you’re a seasoned creative or haven’t picked up a brush since childhood, this class is designed to be accessible, judgment-free, and deeply restorative.

What are Totemic Watercolors?

Think of them as visual totems—organic, stacked forms that represent your inner world. These vibrant watercolor pieces invite you to explore color, emotion, and rhythm through intuitive mark-making.

There’s no “right” way to create a totem—just your way.

About your facilitator, why this class, and why now?

Hi, I’m Clarissa Castillo-Ramsey—a life-long artist, organizational psychologist, and someone who deeply believes in the healing power of creativity.

Like many, I’ve lived through burnout. Art-making became my anchor. It helped me process big feelings, reclaim my voice (literally—I live with a rare vocal disorder), and reconnect with what truly matters.

I recently started painting these watercolor totems and first showed them at an art show. The response blew me away. People kept telling me how soothing and surprising the pieces felt—so I thought, why not share the process?

This class is my way of helping you explore creativity without pressure, reconnect with your intuition, and walk away with a beautiful reminder of your own inner calm.

Why art as self-care?

Recent research shows that engaging in creative practices like painting can reduce cortisol levels (the stress hormone), increase dopamine (the feel-good hormone), and boost our sense of agency and clarity.

A 2022 study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that even short art-making sessions can significantly reduce anxiety and support emotional resilience.

In other words: Art heals.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the Totemic Watercolor workshop. It allowed me to untether from my normal thought process of how to use watercolors and create art. I was able to let myself go and be creative in a different way. Clarissa was wonderful and her instruction for various techniques was easy to understand.” - Robin McG.

What’s Included:

• All watercolor materials provided
• Step-by-step guidance (and freedom to do your own thing!)
• A calming creative experience in a beautiful studio space
• Light snacks & good vibes

Who it’s for:

• Busy professionals who want to hit pause and breathe
• Anyone feeling creatively blocked or craving inspiration
• People interested in art as a healing or mindfulness practice
• Community seekers who love connecting through creativity

Come as you are. Leave with art that feels like you. Space is limited, so grab your spot early. We’d love to paint with you.

Also check out other Arts events in Arcadia, Workshops in Arcadia, Fine Arts events in Arcadia.