WOODBOURNE – What began as a shared exploration in creative expression has blossomed into an artistic collaboration. Local artists Carolyn Koutcher and Mary Adams will debut their first gallery exhibition, “Discoveries and Prayers: A Painting Journey Together,” opening Saturday, September 6 at the historic Old Stone House of Hasbrouck.

This exhibition showcases the artistic evolution of two friends who embarked on a four-year painting journey together. Meeting 13 times since 2021 under the guidance of Intentional Creativity teacher Debra Babcock, Koutcher and Adams created a body of deeply personal acrylic works on canvas that reflect their individual spiritual and creative discoveries.

A Tale of Two Artistic Visions

What makes this exhibition compelling is how two artists, working side by side – often virtually during the pandemic – developed distinct powerful artistic voices. Mary Adams’ paintings evolved into what she describes as “visualization prayers,” works that have transformed and refined through the years as meditative expressions of faith and hope.

Adams describes her work as “paintings feel literally like embodied prayers exploring some unresolved issues or strong intentions in my life- challenging relationships; a desire to protect our lovely forests from perpetual degradation. I often feel as if I am the painting. And as it often is with prayers, I have felt these paintings are blessing and guiding my life. Some of them have taken several years to complete.”

Meanwhile, Carolyn Koutcher’s canvases reveal what she calls “Heart Friends” – mysterious, beings that literally emerge through her brushwork, carrying messages of support and self-discovery from what she describes as “the creative consciousness.”

“My art in this series came through me to the canvas with very few preconceptions,” explains Koutcher. “In the safe environment we all created together, the painting revealed itself and a message was given. There were times I cried tears of gratitude for the painting’s personal message for me.”

The Power of Intentional Creativity

Both artists credit their transformative experience to the Intentional Creativity framework, a process that helps individuals discover themselves through art-making developed by Shiloh Sophia. This methodology, which combines painting with journaling and sharing, created the foundation for their remarkable artistic journey and the personal revelations captured in their work.

Historic Venue Hosts Debut Exhibition

The Old Stone House of Hasbrouck, a historic stone building and volunteer-led nonprofit community center, provides the perfect backdrop for this intimate and meaningful exhibition. Known for hosting art shows and creative classes that bring the local community together, OSH continues its mission of fostering artistic expression and cultural connection.

Exhibition Details:

• Opening Reception: Saturday, September 6, 3-7pm

• Gallery Hours: Saturdays and Sundays in September, 2-5pm

•  Exhibition Closes: Sunday, September 28

• Location: The Old Stone House of Hasbrouck, 282 Hasbrouck Road, Woodbourne

Special Workshop Opportunity

Exhibition visitors can deepen their own creative practice through “Together Artists Reveal Auspiciousness” (TARA) journal workshops led by Mary Adams. These hands-on sessions will guide participants in creating their own art journals while exploring personal creativity in meaningful ways. Supplies fee: $15.00

TARA Workshop Schedule:

• Thursday, September 25,  3-5pm

• Sunday, September 28,  3-5pm

A Must-See Inaugural Opening

This exhibition offers the community an opportunity to witness the fruits of artistic collaboration and personal transformation. The personal nature of both artists’ work, combined with their shared journey of discovery, creates a viewing experience that is both inspiring and deeply moving. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, spiritual seeker, or simply curious about the creative process, “Discoveries and Prayers” promises to offer something meaningful for every visitor.

The exhibition is free and open to the public. For more information about the Old Stone House of Hasbrouck and upcoming events, visit oldstonehouse.org. To learn more about Intentional Creativity, visit musea.org.