Art Therapy Classes Help Burnout Teachers Rediscover Joy

Stacey MacKinnon, a professor at the University of Prince Edward Island, has transformed her approach to creativity through an innovative art class designed for burned-out teachers and caregivers. Located in Montague, P.E.I., this class, led by Patrick Guindon, emphasizes the importance of enjoying the creative process rather than solely focusing on the end result.

MacKinnon, who describes herself as someone who has always been creative but not necessarily artistic, found herself drawn to the course after recognizing her own struggles with burnout. “I found over the years, between responsibilities at home and trying to be everything I could be for my colleagues and students, that I got lost in the shuffle,” she explained. Enrolling in the class has allowed her to shift her mindset. “I’ve been so focused, as are so many people, on achieving… but it has to be in balance with the process.”

Guindon, the owner of Creative Rebel Studio, understands burnout all too well. Before opening his studio, he was an elementary school teacher in Ontario, where he faced immense pressure and stress. “I poured so much of myself into it, and was a very progressive teacher,” he recalled, noting that traditional educational methods often conflicted with his innovative approach.

As the demands of teaching began to take a toll on him, Guindon found himself retreating from colleagues and struggling to cope. “It became really challenging… I wanted to save them all and I didn’t know how to do it,” he said. A pivotal moment came during a meeting about a student, which left him feeling unheard and disillusioned. “I walked out of that meeting thinking, ‘I can’t do this anymore,'” he reflected.

Following this realization, Guindon experienced his first panic attack. Seeking relief, he requested a stress leave but was advised to pursue therapy instead. His therapist encouraged him to return to his artistic roots, prompting him to start painting again. “When I paint, I get lost in a good way,” he described, explaining how art became a form of therapy for him.

In December 2020, Guindon and his family made a significant life change, moving to P.E.I. and establishing Creative Rebel Studio. This decision came during a tumultuous time, as the COVID-19 pandemic impacted many lives. Guindon embraced his identity as an artist, which led to a shift in how he approached both art and life. “Saying that out loud changed everything for how I approached things,” he said.

At Creative Rebel Studio, Guindon aims to create an environment where individuals of all ages can explore their creativity without the constraints of traditional methods. “We want to facilitate a space where everybody can rebel a little bit against the step-by-step stuff,” he explained. This philosophy prioritizes the process of creating, allowing participants to discover their unique voices.

The studio recently celebrated its second anniversary, offering various programs, including the burnout classes that have gained popularity. Guindon reflected on the journey since opening the studio, noting, “This is an affirmation that everything that I believe in and have talked about for so long is true and real.”

MacKinnon and other participants value the lessons learned in these classes, emphasizing the importance of balancing achievement with enjoyment. “Without the joy of the process, it’s just another check box,” she stated.

As Creative Rebel Studio continues to thrive, Guindon remains optimistic about the future, despite the challenges of managing a new business. “I have something pretty incredible to show for it. I believe it will pay off and I think it will be a long-term success,” he concluded.

Through art, both MacKinnon and Guindon have found a pathway to healing and self-discovery, proving that creativity can be a powerful antidote to burnout.