Events

SPJIMR Centre for Wisdom in Leadership (CWIL) successfully hosted the expressive art workshop, providing a creative outlet for participants to relieve stress and explore their emotions. This workshop was designed to enhance personal growth and leadership qualities by fostering introspection, mindfulness, and a deeper connection with one’s emotional state through art.

The event aligned seamlessly with CWIL’s mission of integrating wisdom traditions into leadership development. By utilising creative self-expression, the workshop aimed to cultivate emotional intelligence and self-awareness, promoting a collaborative and values-driven environment within the SPJIMR community. Emotional well-being emerged as a crucial element of holistic leadership, emphasising its importance in both personal and professional spheres.

Event overview

The expressive art workshop was designed to facilitate a transformative journey into self-expression and introspection through art. Art, often considered a mirror to the soul, helps participants uncover and overcome blocks that inhibit expressiveness—whether these stem from societal pressures, fear of judgement, or internalised beliefs.

This workshop highlighted how art provides a safe space to make mistakes and learn from them. Unlike in real life, where errors might seem irreversible, art allows corrections, teaching resilience and adaptability—skills critical for business leaders. Moreover, this creative process embodies the principle of turning setbacks into opportunities, a lesson crucial for navigating dynamic business environments.

The workshop attracted a diverse group of 16 participants, including SPJIMR students, faculty, and external attendees of various ages, all eager to explore unique approaches to emotional expression and self-awareness. The event welcomed individuals regardless of their previous artistic experience, encouraging everyone to engage with their creative potential.

The event was facilitated by Snehal Utekar, the founder of Jeevika Art Academy and a passionate artist and educator with over a decade of experience in the field. She has been deeply immersed in art and calligraphy since 2010, blending traditional artistry with modern techniques to create engaging learning experiences. Her nurturing approach allowed participants to discover how even a novice in art could unlock creativity and transform from ‘zero to hero.’ Snehal’s guidance drew parallels with wisdom in business—emphasising the value of recognising untapped potential, fostering innovation, and embracing imperfection as a path to growth.

The participants were introduced to the art of capturing a sunset on canvas, learning how to apply these techniques to different climatic and temporal settings by skillfully combining cool and warm colours. Snehal emphasised the therapeutic effects of art, helping participants find ease and comfort in their creative expressions.

Despite many participants having no prior art experience, the supportive nature of the workshop and Snehal’s hands-on guidance allowed everyone to express themselves fully. The results were remarkable, with participants not only producing beautiful paintings but also expressing satisfaction and joy at the end of the session.

Participant feedback

One participant reflected, “This 2.5-hour workshop at SPJIMR was a much-needed break from a hectic day-to-day schedule. I had pursued art during my school days, but it was a lost touch. This workshop helped me relive those moments from childhood.”

Another participant shared, “This was my first attempt at art. There was not a single dull moment throughout the workshop. The instructor gave full artistic freedom and provided help at every stage. I’d love to attend even an advanced workshop on similar lines.”

The expressive art workshop was not just an artistic experience but a journey of self-discovery, highlighting the transformative power of creativity in enhancing emotional intelligence and leadership skills. The CWIL looks forward to organising more such events that foster holistic development and well-being in the SPJIMR community.