"Connected to Self"
A Course on Personal Growth and Creative Expression for Art & Design Students
This course is designed with the belief that personal growth is fundamental to the professional development of art and design students. Through an innovative interdisciplinary approach, "Connected to Self" empowers students to explore their identities and connect their creative work to their sense of self. Drawing on principles from Existential Coaching, the course guides students to discover their authentic selves and develop a meaningful personal expression language, essential for both their individual growth and their creative careers.
Course Structure and Objectives
The course unfolds over 14 weeks and consists of three interconnected sections:
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Self-Reflective Group Exercises
Inspired by the existential group psychotherapy model, this segment facilitates a dynamic learning environment where students engage in self-reflection through group interactions. By exploring relationship patterns and interpersonal dynamics, students deepen their understanding of themselves and others. -
Theoretical Exploration of Existential Thought
This section provides a theoretical foundation, delving into topics such as freedom, responsibility, authenticity, and the search for meaning. These existential concepts form the framework for the subsequent week’s reflective and creative work. -
Creative Expression and Feedback
In this segment, students present and discuss their weekly creative works, receiving constructive feedback. Inspired by the week’s themes, they are encouraged to produce work in any medium or technique, freely expressing their inner worlds. Students also write a reflective text to complement their artistic exploration, connecting their creative processes to the existential concepts discussed.
Key Features and Outcomes
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Integrated Personal and Professional Growth
Students explore their sense of identity, gaining clarity on their values and perspectives while integrating this self-awareness into their creative practice. -
Conceptual Framework and Creative Output
Over the 14 weeks, students consolidate their reflections and artistic expressions into a conceptual framework. The course culminates with the creation of a tangible final product, such as a design book, showcasing their self view. -
An Emphasis on Creative Freedom
Students are encouraged to experiment with various media and design tools, fostering their ability to express complex ideas and emotions authentically.
Why This Course Matters
In this course, “design” is understood both broadly, as the human capacity to shape and reimagine our environments, and narrowly, as a profession. The course equips students with tools to navigate both dimensions, helping them reflect on their existence and translate these reflections into impactful creative expressions. By fostering a deeper understanding of self and cultivating a meaningful artistic voice, this course prepares students not only for success in the creative industries but also for lifelong personal growth.
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Course Leaders: Prof T. Melih Görgün (Art & Design) & Mahir Namur (Existential Coach and counselor)
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Contact me to learn more about integrating this transformative course into your university's curriculum. The course can also be held as a one week workshop.
