1) To conduct educational programs in all aspects of sustainable living, including but not limited to - principles, practices and systems of: community building (social, economic, spiritual); appropriate technologies in construction, agriculture, energy, water and waste management; and, wholistic health. EXAMPLES:
- Consensus Decision-making
- Conflict Resolution Methods
- Creating Sustainable Small Businesses and Cottage Industries
- Introduction to the Spiritual Beliefs and Practices of Various Faiths
- Meditation Training
- Community Visioning and Vision Implementation
- Natural and Non-Toxic Building (Materials and Methods)
- Recycling & Household Conservation Strategies for Energy and Water Use
- Composting Methods
- Organic Gardening Techniques
- Natural and Non-Toxic Household Maintenance
- Animal Husbandry
- Food Preservation Methods (canning, freezing, drying, pickling, etc.)
- Interpersonal Skills for Healthy, Happy Relationships
- Team-building Skills Workshops
- Teaching /Learning Strategies for Lifelong Learning
- Introductions to Alternative Technologies
- Water Management (catch water and grey water systems)
2) To conduct programs that promote appreciation and protection of the natural environment, including preservation of terrain, wildlife and botanical ecosystems. EXAMPLES:
- Nature Walks
- Identification and Care of Local Botanicals
- Introductions to Local Wildlife
- Tree Planting
- Reclamation Methods
- Permaculture Courses
- Wholistic Resource Management Seminars
3) To conduct experiential/working/learning retreats and cultural programs in the arts - including, but not limited to musical, visual, tactile, textile, written, theatrical, dance and movement, folk arts and crafts. EXAMPLES:
- Painting
- Pottery and Sculpting
- Jewelry making
- Sewing / Quilting / Weaving
- Creative Writing
- Performance Training and Presentations (music, theater, dance)
- Cooking classes - highlighting use of indigenous foods
- Furniture making
- Basket-making
- Folk Arts & Crafts
EarthArt Institute programs will be conducted by faculty and other presenters drawn first from the many experts available in the local and bioregional area, and beyond as necessary.
The types of programs to be offered include:
- evening workshops, discussion groups, presentations, performances and series
- half day and full day seminars, weekend workshops, conferences, colloquia and practicums
- longer term programs of one or more weeks for in depth study of selected topics
4) To network and maintain outreach systems, linking this organization with related projects, organizations and individuals. EXAMPLES include collaborative activities with such organizations as -
- Global Ecovillage Network
- Ecovillage Network of the Americas
- Fellowship of Intentional Communities
- ScSEED - Saguache County Sustainable Environment and Economic Development initiative
- and others...
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