Nestled in a space surrounded by comforting scents that evoke a sense of calm, this is a place where ideas and stories bloom. Here, we move between large circles, where voices gather and resonate, to smaller circles of three, where conversations become more intimate and reflective. The shifting dynamics create an ebb and flow of connection, allowing every voice to be heard and every heart to be understood. Whether you’re sharing in a larger group or a quieter trio, this space fosters a sense of community, comfort, and transformation, where every moment feels like a gentle embrace.

In this collective intelligence activity, individuals reflect on their personal journeys, translating their inner thoughts into vibrant paintings. Guided by the soothing power of silk, scent, and the Circle Way Methods approach, each participant deepens their connection to the creative process. As they share the stories behind each stroke, their words further illuminate the meaning, revealing how art becomes a bridge between mind and expression. The process unfolds as a powerful dialogue, where self-reflection meets creative articulation, and each painting speaks in the language of transformation.

As I painted, warm tones like red symbolized my past—painful yet transformative—while cool greens represented the peace and warmth I seek for the future. The empty space in the painting reflects the unknown, a reminder that we can never predict what’s ahead. Each stroke mirrored my personal journey of embracing my past, finding courage, and building a stronger self. Through this process, I realized that what I truly want is a life filled with peace, joy, and the fire of inner warmth, not the pressure of success.

A dream of a happy family, born in the early years of secondary school, shaped my perceptions of personal relationships, attachment, trust, and self-worth. It is a vision I carry with me, guiding my future aspirations. Yet, along this journey, I have learned to set down the burdens of past hurts and sorrow. Through this process, a peaceful heart emerges, as I reconcile my dreams with the realities of the present.

Through the delicate layers of silk, emotions once clouded in uncertainty become tangible. A journey of self-reflection, where art intertwines with memories—of freedom found in solitude, passion reignited, and the quiet strength of facing one’s past. In this space of creativity and vulnerability, a deeper understanding of self emerges, as every stroke of paint becomes a step towards clarity. Hạ Long, where I was born, still holds its beauty—mountains and nature that now captivate me in ways I once overlooked. As a child, I never appreciated its beauty, bound by my own constraints, unable to see the vibrant life around me. After finishing university, I returned to Hạ Long for three months of solitude—no work, no distractions. I learned to navigate the world on my own, walking alone, visiting museums, no longer driven by the need to be accompanied or liked. In finding independence, I liberated myself, embracing the freedom to pursue my passions. This time became a journey of self-reflection, revealing how deeply my past had shaped me.