On February 14th 2024, we had the unique pleasure of hosting a Calligratherapy event at Canadian Tire Corporation, specially designed to celebrate the Chinese New Year – the auspicious Year of the Dragon. The workshop was attended by around 40 participants, most of whom had little to no prior experience in calligraphy. Despite this, the atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm and a keen willingness to learn.
Objective of the Event:
The primary goal of this event was not only to introduce the participants to the art of calligraphy but also to use this ancient practice as a means of stress relief and team bonding. In the spirit of the Chinese New Year, it was an opportunity to embrace a cultural tradition, fostering a sense of unity and shared learning among the team members.
Activities and Learnings:
Under the guidance of a skilled instructor, the participants were taken through the basics of calligraphy. This included understanding the various brush strokes, handling the brush, and mastering the flow of ink on paper. The focus was on the process rather than perfection, encouraging participants to express themselves freely while learning a new skill.
The highlight of the event was undoubtedly the creation of calligraphy art on auspicious red paper, symbolizing luck and joy for the New Year. Each participant was tasked with creating a piece that reflected their personal aspirations for the year ahead or a traditional New Year greeting. The activity not only served as a creative outlet but also as a meaningful way to internalize the positive sentiments associated with the festival.
Impact and Feedback:
The feedback from the participants was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed how the event was a refreshing departure from their daily routines, offering them a chance to unwind and connect with their colleagues on a deeper level. The act of learning something new, coupled with the therapeutic aspects of calligraphy, helped in significantly reducing work-related stress.
By the end of the session, the room was filled with beautiful pieces of calligraphy, each telling its own story of hope, aspirations, and good fortune for the New Year. It was a testament to the event’s success in not only teaching a new skill but also in knitting the team closer together.
Conclusion:
The Calligratherapy event at Canadian Tire Corporation was a resounding success, achieving its goal of team bonding and stress relief through the medium of calligraphy. It was a celebration of cultural heritage, creativity, and collective effort, leaving a lasting impression on all who participated. As we move forward, the beautiful artworks will serve as a reminder of a day filled with joy, learning, and togetherness, setting a positive tone for the Year of the Dragon.
