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Facing Immigration

A Creative Workshop on Belonging and Human Connection

Create blind contour self-portraits—drawings made without looking at the page—and explore immigration, identity, belonging, and resilience through art and reflection.

Blind contour drawing is a simple yet profound creative practice in which participants draw without looking at the page. Because the artist cannot control the outcome, the process invites trust, vulnerability, risk-taking, and openness to the unknown. Participants often discover that the finished portrait is surprising, imperfect, expressive, and deeply human.

This experience offers a meaningful metaphor for immigration itself. For many immigrants — and for generations shaped by migration — the journey unfolds without certainty or guarantees. There is often no clear map, only movement, adaptation, courage, and hope.

Participants will first create blind contour self-portraits and then use color to bring their images to life. Together, we will reflect on questions such as:

• What stories of migration live in your family history?
• How has immigration shaped our communities and culture?
• What does it feel like to move through uncertainty without knowing the final outcome?
• How do we create identity, belonging, and home?

This workshop is not about artistic perfection. It is about process, presence, curiosity, and shared humanity. No previous art experience is needed. All are welcome.

Facilitated by Diane Sherman, artist and educator who currently teaches ESL to immigrants and refugees at Spokane Community College. Diane is joined by RICS (Refugee and Immigrant Connections Spokane).

By attending library programs, you are agreeing to potentially appear in photos/videos taken at our locations that may be used in promotional materials including social media.

We strive to make events welcoming for people of all abilities. To request accommodations (i.e. hearing assistance, ASL requests, or other ADA inquiries), email sday@spokanelibrary.org.

For all event information inquiries, email telref@spokanelibrary.org or call 509-444-5300.

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