Hands + Hearts: Memorial Art and Grief Circle
September 26th 10am-1pm | MSSPA
Ā
This gathering is for those who have ever loved an animal and felt the specific, profound weight of that loss.
Over three hours, you'll move through two experiences designed to complement each other: first, making something with your hands, and then, sharing from your heart.
Making: Tiny Altars
In the first half of our time together, you'll create a small remembrance box to honor a special animal you've loved and lost. Working with an Altoid tin and provided materials, you'll build a miniature altar to display at home or carry with you, to keep your loved one close.
This is a creative experience, not an art class. No artistic skill or talent needed! Just a willingness to show up and play. Youā€™re encouraged to bring a photo and/or a meaningful object to include in your project and share with the group.
Tending: Facilitated Grief Circle
Following a break, we'll move into a facilitated grief circle. This is an opportunity to share your experience of loss with others who understand and respect the depth of your relationships with animals. This is not a formal support group, but an intentional space for our grief to be compassionately witnessed and to celebrate the lives of our beloved animals together.
Weather cooperating, the circle will take place outdoors in one of the fields near the horses, offering a peaceful, grounding setting for reflection and connection.
Anyone who has loved and lost a beloved animal - personally or professionally, recently or many years ago - is welcome here.
Logistics
Ā 9/26 10a-1p at MSSPA
- Introductions and object sharing
- Creating your remembrance box
- Break
- Grief circle ā€” check-in, main share, closing
Limit: 12 participants
Cost: $85, all materials included
20% of registration fees are donated to the Maine State Society for the Protection of Animals (MSSPA)
Meet Your Facilitators
Jen and Jess created this gathering because theyā€™ve experienced these losses firsthand and believe that art, ritual, and community are powerful ways to work with grief.Ā
They are both certified grief specialists who have worked with animals professionally for over 25 years in various settings, such as animal shelters, animal control, veterinary clinics, and pet care. Today, their work centers on supporting the people who love, live, and work with animals.
Jennifer Howlett, LCPC, Licensed Clinical Counselor, Certified Animal End-of-Life Doula
Jessica Dolce, MS, Certified Compassion Fatigue and Grief Educator
