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Join Us

EXPLORING OUR GRIEF USING THE CREATIVE ARTS

Saturday January 31, 2026 10-4pm

St. John's Episcopal Church, 

19th Ave/Capitol Way, Olympia. 

Free (Donations accepted). 

Register below as spaces are limited. 

REGISTER HERE

Facilitated by Maia O' Brien and assisted by Vicky McCarley Allen and Jennie Beth Banks (all members of the Death Dancer Artist Collective who showcased their artwork relating to grief at the Death Dancer Art Exhibit at Olympia Fall Arts Walk 2026). 


WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION:

When words are not enough, this workshop is for adults who want to learn new ways to release the stress and trauma of grief and loss by using the creative arts. 


Weaving together participatory activities in  guided movement, music, creative writing, drama and visual arts , we offer space and time to explore new ideas in a safe environment. 


With solo, partner and group activities you can share your story in a safe supportive community. 


  • Learn how to to use the arts to access, process and express the deeper layers of grief in healthy ways
  • Discover hidden challenges, talents and strengths to connect with your inner source of health and wellbeing 
  • Gain a deeper understanding of our inner life to enhance our wellbeing, improve communication and build better relationships with self and others
  • Build a strategy for making positive choices to take care of your health


Try something new in a non-competitive, non-judgmental and supportive atmosphere where your curiosity can lead you to surprising new options, possibilities and opportunities.


  • Bring your own lunch. Drinks and snacks will be provided 
  • Wear comfortable clothes
  • Bring a blanket, towel or yoga pad to lie/ sit on and whatever else you need to feel comfortable 
  • There is a church parking lot


Contact us if you have questions. 

Workshop Facilitators

Facilitated by Maia O' Brien

Assisted by Vicky McCarley Allen

Assisted by Vicky McCarley Allen

 Maia has many years of experience as a dance teacher, Integrative Physical Therapist and Dance/ Movement Therapist.  She used the Creative Arts to help her survive the death of her only child, Keifer Conrad O’Brien. He was stillborn on August 12, 1996.  


Assisted by Vicky McCarley Allen

Assisted by Vicky McCarley Allen

Assisted by Vicky McCarley Allen

Vicky is a local pediatric occupational therapy assistant (OTA), elder companion and caregiver, and former experiential educator in outdoor adventure programs.



Assisted by Jennie Beth Banks

Assisted by Vicky McCarley Allen

Assisted by Jennie Beth Banks

Jennie is the founder of Death Dancer, a practicing Mixed Media artist and End of Life Doula. She leads our monthly Grief Gatherings and Life & Death Art Club. 



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