My First Heart to Art Workshop Experience: Creating from the Heart

It’s amazing how life unfolds when you follow the leadings of your heart. For example, in Feb 2025, a Batik art class randomly showed up on my Instagram feed. I felt led to book last minute and went for it.

Some time later, a random guy messaged me on my art Instagram (which I rarely check). While browsing, I came across the Batik class organizer Ida’s IG stories and that same day, she messaged me asking if I’d like to collaborate on an art class. I felt led to say yes.

It still feels pretty crazy to me because, as a professional Makeup Artist, I had been asked countless times to open makeup classes, and I always said no. I think it’s because I’m already a pro in that field and with that, I would feel judged if I didn’t deliver perfectly, plus I wasn’t sure how to structure it. But with art, I was so new and somehow that made it easier. I didn’t feel the pressure. I just felt free to try as a beginner!

At that time, I was very much into doing Universe art and spiritual awakening, so my first theme was Universe art. But just a few days before the workshop, I felt led to read the Bible. While reading, a drain fly landed on my hand and on the Bible and in that moment I realized I may have opened my light to energies I didn’t actually want to welcome. That was when I shifted the workshop theme to Love. And that’s how Heart to Art was born thanks to ChatGPT and following my intuition to choose what felt most right.

Initially, I priced my workshop at $80, fully feeling its value. Ida suggested lowering it, but I didn’t want to devalue what I was offering. In the end, my class turned out to be the most viewed one on her platform yet nobody signed up. Even the friends I invited weren’t available that day.

Later on, my friend Lavender, a photographer, offered me a full day makeup job which happens to be on that same day of my 1st art class that could have earned me over $1,000. I really thought about it. It felt like a test to me. A moment to choose between money, makeup or my art. My heart knew the answer. This was my First Art Class, and I really wanted it to happen.

And it did!

Thanks to Ida, for this beautiful photo and for inviting her friends and thanks to my dear Shaba (whom I met at the Batik class), who came to support me. I’ll always be grateful to Ida for giving me the opportunity, space, and people to make my first class happen and to Shaba, Zafirah, Thomas, and Able for being there to witness the very first Heart to Art workshop. 💛

I earned nothing that day but I gained everything. Because in life, what I’m truly chasing is not money (money is important I know and I’m thankful to have savings and thankful to George who takes care of most things in my life financially so I’m free to explore life as I want. And most importantly, I trust that God will take good care of me too in every ways and only have the Best plans for me! Thank You Daddy God Hallelujah Amen!!!) What I’m truly chasing is that feeling of alignment, peace, joy, love, and doing something purposeful, impactful and meaningful.

In that class, what Shaba shared really touched me, she thanked me for reminding her to love herself as she had always focused on loving her family, doing well in her work and being a good friend and now is time to love herself.

You’re amazing Shaba!!!

Thank you so much for your sweet gift and most importantly, your presence!

The feedbacks I read from the other participants also let me feel so much joy for what Heart to Art Workshop let them feel in the class and to continue doing this.

Thomas brought his son Able to class and it warms my heart to see them exchanging positive words for each other and spending this father and son time bonding over art!

I thank God for always letting me be me. I thank my mom and George for always giving me the space to live fully as myself.

Most of all, I’m thankful to have something that excites me, carries purpose and meaning, and can bring a positive impact to people. Yayyy!

Ok below is curated ChatGPT message that is more for marketing heh! Please continue reading if you are considering to have Heart to Art Workshops at your spaces and to organize Heart to Art Workshops with me!

Art can be more than just something beautiful. It can heal, connect, and inspire. That’s what I experienced during my very first Heart to Art workshop. What began as a Universe Art theme blossomed into something much deeper: a space where people felt safe to create, reflect, and reconnect with themselves and each other.

What is Heart to Art?

Heart to Art is a unique art experience that encourages emotional expression, connection, and love. Unlike traditional art classes, participants are invited to create freely from the heart without rules, templates, or fear of judgment. Because the goal isn’t perfection, but rather authenticity, this process becomes a journey of self-discovery and healing.

Creating from your Heart

Initially, I designed this class to focus on the universe, stars, galaxies, and cosmic colors. However, in 1 night, I sensed a deeper calling. To let people have a moment to pause, to be seen, and to create with intention. So, I shifted the direction and encouraged everyone to follow their hearts. The results were honest, raw, and beautiful. Some felt a weight lifted off. All left feeling more connected and joyful.

Why This Workshop Matters Now

In today’s fast-paced world, many people feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, and disconnected. Heart to Art offers a much-needed space to slow down and reconnect. Through this workshop, participants:

• Reconnect with their emotions
• Express themselves without fear
• Build empathy and deeper relationships
• Experience the joy of creating without expectations

This experience helps to reduce stress, build self-esteem, and nurture emotional wellness.

Ideal for Companies, Schools, and Communities

Heart to Art isn’t just for artists. In fact, it’s especially powerful for people who don’t consider themselves creative. Because it removes the pressure to be “good” at art, it opens up a world of self-expression for everyone.

For Corporations:

• Reduce workplace stress and prevent burnout
• Encourage authentic team bonding
• Boost creative problem-solving and communication

For Schools:

• Support children in processing emotions
• Improve empathy, confidence, and focus
• Create a culture of kindness and creative freedom

For Community Groups and Wellness Events:

• Offer a space for emotional healing
• Promote connection and mindfulness
• Build a stronger, more caring community

Participant Reactions

Participants shared how they enjoyed the process of feeling free, rejuvenated, connected, relaxed, calming and recharged. One said, “It was awesome to see that everyone has a reason no matter the skill.” and one thanked me for reminding her to love herself. Another participant mentioned how much he enjoyed the workshop from being free to create simply for joy. Even though most people came in as strangers, they left feeling emotionally connected.

Why Art From the Heart Heals

Heart to Art teaches us that creativity isn’t about skill, it’s about freedom. When people feel safe to express themselves, they begin to let go of emotional blockages. Art becomes a form of release, reflection, and renewal. And the best part? Anyone can do it.

Let’s Bring Heart to Art to More People

If you’re a leader, teacher, HR executive, or event organizer, you have the power to make a difference. Let’s bring Heart to Art into your company, school, or community. Whether it’s a one-off experience or part of a long-term wellness initiative, this class can transform lives.

Take the Next Step

To learn more or invite me to host this workshop for your group, reach out at +65 93873142 or info@tracyimmanuelart.com.

Let’s create a kinder, more connected world, one heartfelt stroke at a time.