Course description
This course invites you to explore yourself in relation to others – not just as an individual, but as part of various communities. We will examine what happens within me in interaction, what kind of space and feeling I create with my own presence, and how we can collectively strengthen courage and hope.
In the course, we will pause to consider questions that open up space for insights:
- What all happens and awakens within me when I meet different people?
- How do my own actions and choices affect our shared reality?
- What kind of courage do I need and what courage do I gain in connection with others?
- How can hope be built together?
We are not looking for ready answers. We are building a space where you can observe, experiment, and become more aware of your own way of being a part of “us.”
The course combines inspiring lectures, dialogue, observation, and self-reflection in various ways, as well as gentle visual expression. The working methods are practical, safe, and participatory.
The course is suitable for you if you want to:
- better understand your way of interacting
- strengthen conscious agency in communities
- practice courage in small but meaningful actions
- be part of a connection that builds hope
In the visual work section, we will do inspiring exercises that deepen the course topics. You can be experienced or a beginner in image-making. You can bring your own paints and tools. Acrylic paints are well-suited and versatile. It is also possible to use materials provided by the teacher, for which there is a separate charge (approx. 15 €, cash payment or MobilePay).
Please indicate when registering if you will use materials provided by the teacher.
Further information by email: kirsi@piitta.fi.
Instructors: trainer, supervisor (Master of Education) Maija Juoperi and visual artist (Master of Arts), visual expression teacher Kirsi Ryynänen.
Course program
Thursday 8.10.
Arrival in Valamo
14.00 Lunch at cafe-restaurant Trapesa
17.00 Course opening and orientation
Introduction to observation and visual work
18.00 Ninth Hour, Vespers, Small Compline and evening prayers in the main church
18.30 Opening of the work session
19.30 Evening meal
Friday 9.10.
6.00 Midnight Service, Matins, First Hour in the main church
7.30 - Breakfast
9.00–12.00 Interaction
“What happens within me when I am with others – and what does it create in the community?”
Introduction and visual exercises
12.00–14.00 Lunch break
14.00–17.30 Agency
“What kind of space do I create for others with my way of being, acting, and choosing?”
Introduction and visual exercises
18.00 Ninth Hour, Vespers, Small Compline and tri-canon in the main church
19.30 Evening meal
Saturday 10.10.
6.00 Midnight Service, Matins and Liturgy in the main church
7.30 - Breakfast
9.00–12.00 Courage
”What makes me and us more courageous?”
Introduction and visual exercises
12.00–14.00 Lunch break /Prayer Service at 12.00 in the main church
14.00–17.30 Hope
“How does connection with others create hope – and how can I be a part of it?” Introduction and visual exercises
18.00 Vigil in the main church
19.30 Evening meal
Sunday 11.10.
7.30–10 .00 Breakfast
9.00 Third Hour and Liturgy in the main church
10.00–12.00 Painting exhibition
Final summary and sharing of experiences
12.00 Course closing lunch
