Summer At The Sangha 2025—Week 1

Week 1 Sessions

Monday, 7/7:

AM – Nature-Inspired Watercolor Painting
PM – Sound Story Song

During our morning Nature-Inspired Watercolor Painting workshop, participants will reflect on the beauty of nature all around in land, water, animals and plants that are part of our ecosystem and connect us all. Guided through watercolor painting by artists from the Spirit of Huntington Arts Center, we will be inspired by the life and work of Claude Monet. We will discover the story behind this legendary Impressionist painter and explore his iconic landscape masterpieces. Using Monet’s art as our muse, participants will learn essential watercolor techniques and create their own impressionist-style landscape paintings. We look forward to encouraging the creativity of all who attend in whatever shape it takes as we engage in watercolor art together.

This workshop will be followed by lunch and then a musical experience with musician and vocalist, Lisa Mischke, who is returning this summer by request of our participants. She will offer an interesting array of musical activities connecting humans to the natural world. Embark on a journey through the power of sound as we actively engage with interesting instruments from various world cultures. This includes a harp, the origins of which has evolved in diverse cultures over time and the Indian harmonium, originating in West Bengal.

Wednesday, 7/9:

AM – Indian Rangoli Art & Rakhi Friendship Bracelets
PM – Live Animal Experience

We are happy to have Kashmiraa Pandit of the Asian American Institute of Research and Engagement (AAIRE) with us for a workshop covering the traditional Indian art forms of Rangoli and Rakhi making, delving into their history to explore their origins, evolution, symbolism, and continuation today. While each art form holds their own unique history, the symbolic significance of blessings, protection, love, and understanding remain central to both as each continues to impact our lives.  Together, we will embark on creating a beautiful Rangoli design with vibrant patterns using natural materials like rice flour, flower petals, and colored powders. Participants will also have the chance to make Rakhi bracelets, a symbol of love, care, and protection for family members and friends alike. Both experiences will impart its timeless value towards building strength and communities grounded in care and understanding. 

After lunch, we are privileged to have Sweetbriar Nature Center with us again this summer. They will introduce participants to various animals who reside at their science education and native wildlife rehabilitation center, offer hands-on touch, and discuss details about animal attributes, behavior, and habitats. We welcome the education and animal insight Sweet Briar brings to Sangha. And look forward to a visit with mammals and reptiles alike!

Friday, 7/11:

AM – Indigenous Sounds & Nature’s Music
PM – Cajun Wooden Box Drum Making

Singer, songwriter and voice coach Toniann Butler will spend time with us this morning providing an educational experience of indigenous sounds or nature music! Many cultures from around the world use drum, flute and other instruments made out of natural materials to express their ideas, beliefs, and feelings while providing lessons and insights to others. Toniann will introduce us to the origins of various wood drums and engage us in related musical activities.

In the afternoon, we will embark on making Cajun wood box drums with Malcolm Hall, our long-term community partner and wood-working expert. Painting of the wood box drums will take place on a separate day where there will also be time for completion. Malcolm’s Guyanese heritage and experience as a musician lend themselves well to exploring this musical form further. Sample indigenous drums will be brought in for education and usage.

Location