the painting game
We need a PLACE to paint because we, big and small, need places where we can find peace and where we can communicate with ourselves without passive influence. We need places where we can be together without judgment, admiration, competition or the need for explanation, where we can be who we are, without any thoughts of productivity, just because we are. In the Malort you will find a protected space with solid structures, lots of great materials for drawing and painting and mindful assistance. You will not find any painting instructions, specifications or role models here. Everything together enables you to achieve freedom of thought and the opportunity to discover a huge gateway to your own creativity.
Adam Caar
Developer
Use this space to introduce yourself and share your professional history.
Arno Stern
a little history on the painting game
Arno Stern, the founder of the painting game, has been working with people of all ages in his painting place in Paris for over 65 years. His theories on painting without judgment are now world-famous and an important part of the training of art therapists and educators. All of the painting game companions at the Sternstunden painting location were personally trained by Arno Stern.
The painting game is, as the word suggests, about painting AND playing. As with the game, the moment is the most important aspect. As painters, we immerse ourselves in the game, everything around us is forgotten for a short time, our heads are freed from circling thoughts and we can let go and relax deeply. The image is created in this moment, in the flow and in connection with ourselves.
What is painted is not evaluated, not commented on, not interpreted and painters learn to detach themselves from external judgments. According to Arno Stern, 'no external goal is imposed on the painted work' and 'the picture can arise from inner necessity'.
In the painting game, painters learn to trust their own abilities and can thus develop their natural painting skills. Far away from hectic and performance-oriented everyday life, without goals or thoughts of productivity, the painting location offers the optimal conditions for preserving and developing our very own inner track. In the painting game, painters find an often unexpected source of creativity and they experience the strength and peace that comes from experiencing the moment.
Arno Stern
exceptional educator and pioneer
in the world of creative expression
He created the "Malort," a special space free from judgment and competition. Here, children and teens could put their inner worlds on paper without fear of evaluation or correction. The Malort became a protected place where true creativity could flourish, laying the foundation for Stern's lifelong mission to encourage the natural expressiveness of humans.
Arno Stern's innovative approach allowed individuals, especially children, to pursue their inner creativity and fostered an environment of freedom and discovery. Stern's work went beyond traditional art education, emphasizing the importance of the creative process over the finished product.
Over the decades, Arno Stern's influence has spread widely. He traveled extensively, sharing his philosophy and methods with educators, psychologists, and artists around the world. His commitment to preserving and understanding the natural expression of creativity led him to study the drawings of children from different cultures, which further enriched his insights and teachings.
Arno Stern has authored numerous books and articles sharing his deep understanding of the human creative impulse. His writings and teachings continue to inspire a global community of educators and artists dedicated to fostering authentic expression.
Arno Stern died on June 30, 2024 at the age of 100, leaving behind a life's work that has had a profound impact on countless people.
In memory of Arno Stern, we celebrate a life dedicated to unlocking the creative potential in all of us. His legacy lives on in the countless people who were touched by his wisdom and compassion. Arno's work reminds us of the importance of creating spaces where we can freely express our true selves, and for that we are eternally grateful.
Arno Stern was born on October 23, 1924 in Kassel. His early life was strongly influenced by the horrors of World War II. When the persecution of Jews in Germany intensified, his family sought refuge in Switzerland to escape the horrors of the Nazis.
In the post-war years, Arno Stern began his groundbreaking work with youth and children. It was during this time that he realized the power of creative expression.