Landscapes of the Soul

Explore Joshua Tree’s landscape and symbolism with Mythologist Cindi Anderson, who utilizes a writing technique called Active Imagination to unlock your creative potential.

This is an ADA-accessible and leisurely activity - less than 1 mile with little or no elevation gain; shade and floor seating is available. Folks are encouraged to bring a blanket or lightweight camping chair to sit down.

Cindi Anderson holds a doctorate in Mythology and Archetypal Psychology. She specializes in emerging themes and symbols in our personal and collective stories—think Dan Brown’s character, Robert Langdon, in The Da Vinci Code. Her particular focus is the West’s changing relationship with Nature and where civilization and wilderness intersect.

A tree is not just a tree; artists and storytellers of all kinds have known for centuries that the imagery of our planet expresses our inner landscape as much as our outer world. In this workshop, learn how the symbolism of the landscape is used to provide meaning in storytelling and tap into your creative potential through a writing technique called Active Imagination. This form of automatic writing is used by scientists and artists alike to open creative pathways; no previous writing experience is necessary. Come gain a new understanding of how our desert landscape speaks to you personally and meaningfully through this powerful creative process.

Participants must bring all required items for the course: a notepad or journal for writing, a pen or pencil, a camp chair, a towel or blanket for sitting, water, and snacks.

Photo credit: Tatjana Kudla, Desert Institute Volunteer