Grief changed
everything.
Creativity helps me live with it.
Process painting that meets you where you are.
South Windsor, CT - Art Meditation Workshops
I’ve always loved creative problem-solving and art. After a life-changing loss, I knew my world would never be the same. I also learned that most people have no idea how to deal with grief.
I needed something that didn’t ask me to talk, explain, or pretend I was okay. Creativity became a steady companion and helped me keep going. It gave me a way to express my deepest thoughts without judgment.
I couldn’t “work through” grief. I had to learn how to live again in a world that holds devastating loss and new possibility. Painting became that bridge.
The Power of the “AND”
It took time, but I learned to live with the AND.
Life isn’t either/or. It’s both - and. Creativity helps us live that truth.
For a long time I believed, “I can’t be happy because my daughter died.” When I finally asked if that was true, I realized I was holding her responsible for my happiness. That felt wrong.
One day I painted a message: “I give myself permission to have a happy life.”
That became my truth, and art helped me uncover it.
Healing comes from within.
Four months after our daughter died, my husband and I went to a retreat in Italy. We needed to step out of daily life.
A medium, an artist, and a mindfulness coach led the workshop. Under a pergola, we had our first mediumship reading.
That moment opened the door. I realized healing wouldn’t come from what someone else told me; it had to rise from within.
Creativity was the link. Canvas & Connection exists to offer that link to others.
Create to feel, not to fix.
Grief held in the body can feel unbearable. Painting gave my anxiety and sadness somewhere to go. It’s movement. It’s focus. It can shift how you feel.
You don’t need much to begin - simple supplies, no pressure, no right way. Just a way in.
It’s all About the Process,
not the Product
At Canvas and Connection, painting is more than art - it's a pathway to self-discovery and healing. Our workshops are designed to help you discover the transformative power of painting to:
Alleviate Stress and Anxiety: Engage in mindful painting techniques that promote relaxation and mental clarity, and remember the power of play.
Navigate Life's Transitions: Use creative expression as a tool to process changes, including all types of grief and life’s transitions, and embrace new beginnings.
Build a Supportive Community: Connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for curiosity, creativity, and personal growth.
No prior art experience is necessary - just bring your authentic self and an open heart. Art helps. Want to try?
Ways to Work with Me
Live Zoom creative sessions or pre recorded, self paced sessions - accessible from anywhere
One-on-one or small group coaching using intuitive art to support life transitions
I’m Sharon Cavanaugh - Welcome to Canvas and Connection
Art is an important part of my life. It’s how I think, how I connect with people, and how I find myself. It’s gotten me through some really rough times and it’s my constant go to. It’s also been my career. After college I worked as Medical Illustrator, a designer in marketing department at a hospital, and a freelance graphic designer and illustrator. In 2003 I created Connecticut Art School, teaching art to thousands of children and teens. In August 2024 I had the privilege of selling the school, giving me the opportunity to help adults use art to create a life they love.
Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional or an art therapist. This work complements—not replaces—therapy or medical care. My goal is to help you find yourself through creativity.