Episode #1 Jaclyn Gordyan — Art as Ritual, Nature as Teacher

Artist and healer Jaclyn Gordian joins host Hava Gurevich to discuss reclaiming art as a ritual, embracing nature as a collaborator, and the emotional power of intuitive creativity.They dive into Jaclyn’s evolution from representational work to abstract nature-infused pieces, how her grief and healing shaped her practice, and how movement, colour, and earth-based materials guide her emotionally and spiritually.Jaclyn also discusses launching a nature-based artist residency in Michigan and what it means to foster a safe space for raw, process-led creation.Topics Covered:The spiritual and intuitive evolution of Jaclyn’s artMoving from figure drawing to emotional abstractionNature as a collaborator, not just a backdropWorking with materials like moss, bark, saltwater, and movementThe role of grief and healing in her creative awakeningCreating a sacred, home-based studio spaceStarting a new artist residency focused on land, body, and spiritReleasing perfectionism in favor of process and playThe connection between nervous system regulation and creative flowBuilding an artistic life that honours joy, rest, and personal sovereignty