To Enroll:

Begin by filling out the application at the bottom of this page and clicking “Apply Now.” Once submitted, choose your session below and reserve your spot.

About the Workshop:

The Art of Becoming Summer Workshop series is intentionally designed for teen girls ages 13-17 to explore empowerment, creativity and connection through the healing presence of horses and the expressive power of fine arts .In a world where teen girls face increasing pressures from social media, academic stress, social anxiety and depression- this camp offers a safe and supportive environment where participants can slow down, engage in creative expression and reconnect with authentic selves through guided art experiences, and time with the horses- building confidence, emotional awareness, and meaningful connection.

The Healing Power Of Horses:

Horses teach us how to be in the present moment, helping us to step out of worry about the past and the future. I like to say in our work…Horses help us move from our head to our heart. When we speak from the voice of the heart we are following our own internal compass and that is where we can begin to create a new narrative. Spending time with horses supports the body’s natural ability to move out of stress and reactivity and into a state of calm, safety and presence.

Create a sense of safety and ease
Build confidence and self-trust
Encourage awareness of thoughts and feelings
Offer connection without judgement

 Fine Art Exploration:

Led by professional artist Dana del Castillo, participants will explore:

Mixed media techniques

Acrylics & Watercolor painting

Color Theory: value, temperature & mood

Creative Expression as an emotional release

Personal storytelling through art

 ** No prior art experience is needed- just curiosity and openness**

What Girls Will Gain:

Increased self-confidence & empowerment alongside the horses

Tools for emotional expression

Practicing presence-based strategies to stay centered amid social and academic demands

Creative skills & artistic foundations

Meaningful Friendships and Community

A safe compassionate space to be fully themselves

Why this Workshop Matters:

Feel seen, heard and supported

Create without comparison

Build resilience through creativity

Experience community rooted in compassion 

The Details:

Intentionally designed for teen girls ages 13-17 with a group maximum of 14 per session. Art supplies and snacks will be provided. Please bring a sack lunch – lunch is not provided.

**Session 1: June 8th -11  9am to 1pm** 

  **Session 2: July 6th – 9th 9am to 1pm** 

    **Session 3: August 3rd – 6th 9am -1pm** 

Enrollment Deadline is May 18th 2026

Cost:

$600 for the 4 day session

Payment plans available! Please email artsoulandhorses@gmail.com for options

Meet Your Co-Facilitators:

Dana del Castillo is a fine artist, horsewoman, awareness practitioner and life coach with years of experience supporting youth through creative expression. She created an art school in Acapulco, Mexico and currently creates fine art paintings for clients all over the world. She brings a calm, compassionate teaching style rooted in mindfulness, presence and self-trust.

Meet the Founder RN, BSN, EGCM Art Soul and Horses, Inc

Vivian is a Certified Equine Gestalt Practitioner, energy worker, mixed media artist, Registered Nurse, horsewoman and devoted student of the horse. She is the founder of Art Soul and Horses, Inc, where she has  integrated the wisdom of horses with creative expression and embodied awareness to support healing and empowerment. Vivian has extensive experience working with teen girls in both the Behavioral Health and Reformative Justice Settings, creating safe, compassionate and structured spaces for youth navigating anxiety, depression, overwhelm and challenging life experiences. Her work supports teens in discovering and shaping a personal vision rooted in self-compassion, love and authenticity, guided by the steady and healing presence of horses.