Dreaming Through Art: LLAA Study Group – October 9, 2025

Our first LLAA Study Group of the new school year was graciously hosted at the home of Marcia Klein. Inspired by the San José Museum of Art’s new permanent exhibition, Tending & Dreaming: Stories from the Collection, the session invited participants to reflect on how artists across time and cultures have explored the themes of dreaming, sleep, and imagination.

These gatherings offer more than just opportunities for learning—they also provide a welcoming space for docents to share ideas, connect with one another in a relaxed setting, and enjoy a delicious potluck lunch.

Louise Persson spoke on the art of Kenneth Patchen: "An Astonished Eye: The Graphic Art of Kenneth Patchen." He called them picture poems. Not only did Marcia host the study group, she gave a presentation comparing two artists's paintings: Sleep in Art: Comparing Van Gogh's & Millett's Siesta. Suman's presentation: Dreams As Healing: How Artists Use Dream Imagery to Tend Trauma" was thought provoking. Jody Foster spoke about Magritte's Dreams: "Notes re: Magritte and Dreams." Lisa Dearborn gave a presentation on "Dreaming in Mexico: Kahlo, Varo & Carrington." Finally, Debbie Watson spoke on the art of Yayoi Kusama: "Lingering Dreams." All docents are welcome to attend the study groups whether you are giving a presentation or just want to come engage with the rest of the group. Charlene Nagayama, Linda Cortinas and Amy Mears were on hand to join in on the lively conversations and good food afterwards. One of the favorite dishes enjoyed by the group was Marcia Klein's Coronation Cauliflower Chickpea Salad.

Thank you to Marcia Klein, Jody Foster and Suman Ganapathy for providing feeback and photos for this event.

The afternoon proved to be both thought-provoking and inspiring. If you would like to see additional prints from these presentations, please click on the links below:

Jody Foster - Magritte's Dreams

Marcia Klein - Sleep in Art

Louise Persson Kenneth Patchen

Lisa Dearborn - Dreaming in Mexico

Suman Ganapathy Presentation - Dreams as Healing

If you would like to see more prints from the Study Group, Click Here: DREAMING THROUGH ART