12th Workshop

Exploring Through Imagery

Title of the activity:Exploring through imagery

Date and place: 03.08.2025 -Young Folks LV office, Riga, Latvia

Duration: 100 minutes

Aim of the activity:To explore nonverbal communication, build trust, and express emotions through sound and movement, fostering connection and emotional awareness among participants.

Participants info: 8 young people aged 15-27.

Description of the activity:

The workshop began by creating a calm and welcoming space. Participants were invited to bring personal photographs that reflected their current emotional state. The facilitator introduced the concept of therapeutic photography as a way to connect with oneself and others through visual expression.

In the first activity, participants closed their eyes and imagined a safe, empowering place. After visualizing the space, they wrote down the details and shared them with a partner, reflecting on the emotions and imagery that came up.

Next, participants shared personal photos they had brought and chose one prepared image that resonated with them. These images, without people, encouraged discussion about how visual metaphors can reflect inner emotions.

Then, participants created symbolic self-portraits using objects to express their current selves and future aspirations. Once completed, they shared their portraits and reflected on what they represent, as well as the steps and challenges ahead.

The workshop ended with a group discussion where participants reflected on their experiences and the emotions uncovered throughout the process. Some also took part in a short grounding exercise, choosing one word to express their takeaway from the session, leaving with a sense of closure and self-awareness.