Innenwald Workshop

A Guided Intuitive Painting Session

In this workshop, we will explore our creativity through intuitive painting inspired by Japanese nature.

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About This Workshop

The Innenwald Workshop is aimed at people who wish to (re-)discover their creativity and reconnect with nature in an artistic environment and guided painting session. We practice Indoor Forest Bathing - with the help of sound baths and aromatherapy - and let the sounds and fragrances guide us on our creative journey.

To be announced

What You Will Experience

Indoor Forest Bathing

With original soundscapes and aroma blends, created by Sonja Kanno

Creative Perception

We learn to translate our perception of sound & smell into colors, shapes & compositions on paper, according to the Innenwald Method©

Painting Techniques

We learn how to use painting materials & techniques to create intuitive color palettes & expressive compositions

Your Creative Journey

We look inwards, to find those inner landscapes and learn how to express them freely on paper

The Innenwald

We discover the Innenwald (Inner Forest) as source for our inspiration

And more

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What is Innenwald

[ˈɪnənˈvalt]

Innenwald is a combination of the German words Innenwelt (Inner World) and Wald (Forest or Woods). It can be translated into English as Inner Forest, Indoor Forest, or Forest Within. The artist Sonja Kanno has created this word, to describe the metaphorical forest of thoughts, feelings, and memories that lives inside of us. To some, this is a place of shadows and mystery. To others, it can be a place of insight and inner peace.

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Your Inner Forest Guide

“Hello, I’m Sonja. And during this workshop, I’ll be your guide through your Inner Forest. I will help you find your artistic voice and show you how to turn your perception and intuition into soulful paintings. Let’s start your Creative Journey through the Innenwald!”

Sonja Kanno is a German painter, ceramic and media artist, and creator of the Innenwald Method©. She received her Master’s Degree of Fine Arts in 2010 while living in the Netherlands. For the last decade, Sonja has been working in the creative industry in Japan. She enjoys teaching her unique process to both beginners and experienced artists alike.

To be announced

The Innenwald Method©

The Innenwald Method© is based on cross-modal perception, a cognitive process that intuitively links sounds and smells with colors and shapes. Some people may experience this phenomenon in their daily lives, known as synesthesia. This process can also be used to enhance creativity. The Innenwald Method© incorporates Sonja Kanno's unique Indoor Forest Bathing experience to create sensory associations. Participants engage in guided exercises to express forest-inspired soundscapes and aromas through intuitive painting compositions. The resulting artworks can range from abstract interpretations to figurative images, reflecting the participant’s emotions, thoughts, and memories.

What Participants Say

Good Experience

“It was a good experience for me. I enjoyed it so much.”

Mika

Again

“It became a great meditation time. I want to do it again.”

Yuko

Enjoyable

“At first I was not sure if I wanted to paint, but then I dove right in. I enjoyed the workshop.”

S.

Meditation

“It was a really creative workshop. Like a new way of meditation.”

Yo M.

For Sharing

“It was a good opportunity for communication and sharing.”

T.

Playful

“The workshop was interesting. I could play like a child. It made me feel comfortable.”

Alexander

Past Workshop Themes

Information

  • Who Can Participate

    The workshop is suitable for beginners and experienced artists, who wish to participate in a guided painting session inspired by nature.

  • What To Bring

    We work with artist-grade acrylic paints and other materials. The materials are included in the participation fee and will be provided to you during the workshop. Please bring an apron or old shirt to protect your clothing from paint stains, as well as your own hand towel.

  • People With Sensitivities and Allergies

    During the workshop, we will be using natural essential oils in an aroma diffuser. If you are sensitive to fragrances or have allergies, please refrain from participation.