My studio is your studio

Karin Toma shares her studio twice a week to paint, discover, and experiment together and to inspire each other. 
 

Working Method – Painting from Within

Karin Toma’s painting sessions are inspired by the philosophy of Arno Stern and his unique approach known as the “play of painting.” In this method, the focus is not on the final result, but on the act of painting itself.

Rather than teaching techniques, composition, or “how things should be done,” participants are invited to paint freely. Without judgment, without examples, and without performance pressure, space is created to follow an inner impulse.

 

Painting as Play, Not Performance

In this approach, painting is seen as a form of play. This means:

  • no assignments or themes
  • no corrections or evaluations
  • no comparison with others
  • no focus on what is “beautiful” or “good”

Painting happens purely for the sake of painting. This freedom allows participants to reconnect with their own spontaneity and creativity. Arno Stern discovered that under these conditions, a natural visual language emerges, which he called “The Formulation” — a universal and personal process present in every human being.

 

A Safe and Protected Environment

An essential part of this method is the environment in which painting takes place. Just like in Arno Stern’s studio — the so-called Closlieu — sessions are held in a calm, enclosed space.

Within this setting, a few key principles apply:

  • the work is not created to be viewed or judged
  • paintings are not discussed or interpreted
  • the process is personal and confidential
  • attention remains on the act of painting itself

This safe environment allows participants to work without pressure or expectations and to fully immerse themselves in the moment.

 

The Role of the Facilitator

In these sessions, Karin Toma does not take on the role of a traditional teacher, but rather that of a facilitator. In line with Arno Stern’s approach, this is sometimes referred to as a “serving role.”

This means she:

  • supports and safeguards the process
  • provides the right materials and a calm setting
  • does not direct, interpret, or judge
  • is present when needed, without interfering in the creative process

The participant remains the sole owner of what emerges.

 

Returning to the Essence of Creativity

This way of painting helps participants let go of learned ideas about what art should be. Instead, it creates space for authenticity, relaxation, and joy.

Painting becomes not a goal in itself, but a way to reconnect with oneself.

 

Personal interpretation 

Karin Toma’s working method is inspired by the philosophy of Arno Stern. However, she does not follow his official method or training, nor does she offer authentic Closlieu sessions as developed by him.

Her approach is a personal interpretation, in which elements of Stern’s vision are combined with her own experience, intuition, and way of facilitating.

 

For more information, you can call or email:

 

Tel. 06-23647954

Email: karin.toma62@gmail.com