Artful Contemplation, with Dr. Maureen Carey

Twisting the Plot

In her early twenties, Maureen Carey was called to the religious life. Her interest in the anti-war movement and civil disobedience led her to the sisterhood and years of service to others. During this time she also got her Ph.D. in social work, taught at Molloy College, and co-authored books.

Twenty-five years later, Dr. Carey twisted her plot and left the religious life. More recently, she retired from teaching. She’s had a new calling, art as a means for spiritual contemplation.

Maureen has developed a method for using watercolors, journaling, doodling and reflection as a means for spiritual growth.

Join us as Maureen shares her story. How does a woman in the 1970’s decide to join the religious life? What makes her decide to change paths after 25 years? How is doodling a channel to the soul?

We loved this conversation and the holy doodle.

Maureen E. Carey, Ph.D. is Professor Emerita of Social Work at Molloy College, Rockville Centre, NY and a practicing artist. She had taught undergraduate social work courses at Molloy College and has led many Artful Meditation Workshops both at the college and with other professional groups on Long Island.She developed a method of artful journaling using liquid watercolors, doodling and reflection for those seeking to create a pathway for their own spiritual growth. Maureen co-authored a book: The Artful Journal: A Spiritual Quest (2002) describing this artful journal method, and in another published book: Silent Presence: A Companion Through the Journey of Grief (2007).

In addition, Maureen's work has been in various exhibits on Long Island. She has also done commissioned work for several colleges and local groups. She maintains an art studio in Southold, New York and continues to give Artful Contemplative Workshops on the North Fork of Long Island.

Her work can be viewed on her website at maureencareyartist.com