Hollis Witherspoon: Improv for the artist
About this workshop:
We invite artists of all disciplines to join us for a transformative experience designed to explore the intersection of personal ecosystems, improvisation, play, and discovery. This full-day outdoor workshop will offer space for artists to reconnect, reflect, and reimagine in a serene natural environment. Join us for one or both dates!
What you can Expect:
Awaken your creative impulses through improvisational, exploratory play
Connect and collaborate with fellow artists in a supportive, non-judgmental space
Engage in embodied, joyful, spontaneous activities with time for reflection and dialogue
Enjoy the ‘pause’ that the natural world can offer you and your artistic practice
Be guided by seasoned facilitators with experience across visual, performance, therapeutic, and academic arts
About Hollis
Hollis, a Licensed Creative Arts Therapist, psychotherapist, and Registered Drama Therapist living and working in Brooklyn and Upstate, New York.
My path to becoming a therapist was somewhat meandering. I’ve always been deeply curious about people and how our backgrounds, cultures, and families have helped shape who we are and how we show up in the world. I studied medical anthropology and theatre and dance at Princeton University, followed by the William Esper Meisner Acting Conservatory. For many years, I worked as an actor and improviser in New York City. During this time, I developed an improv-based technique for folks who did not identify as performers but were seeking ways to access spontaneity, creativity, and freedom in their lives.
Since receiving my Masters's degree in Drama Therapy from New York University, I have taught my unique curriculum at major academic institutions and provided individual and group therapy to clients from all walks of life, including military veterans, social workers, fine arts faculty, eating disorder treatment residents, school administrators, therapists, senior citizens, kids, teens, adults, and couples. I also co-founded a women’s wellness retreat company, Creative Women Retreats with my colleague Isabel Shanahan. My vibe is warm, direct, supportive, and intentional. I hold space for the serious stuff with humor and care.
Outside of therapy? I can be found reading, baking, biking, watching comedy, looking at art, going to the theatre, and nature bathing.