Who are we?
The Imaginal Trackers Institute ™ (ITI) is a multi-cultural, international program of study and exploration dedicated to enhancing health and wellness through art-based guidance in experiencing our inter-species (more-than-human) connections. We track our inter-species relationships through the sacred dimensions of the imagination and the universal language of the arts.

What is Imaginal Tracking™?
Imaginal trackers are “healers of separation”.  The training of the Imaginal Tracker involves becoming conversant and comfortable in the arts, our most ancient and ancestral language. In addition, the Imaginal Tracker learns expanded methods of paying attention and deep discernment. An Imaginal Tracker seeks beauty as a way of being, restoring a sense of wonder and authentic connection by tracking the nuances of the experiences of our daily life within the vital relational world in which we are embedded.

              
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Where is ITI located?

The Imaginal Trackers Institute is an international organization. We have two locations in North America:

  • Strawberry Tree Studio/Spiritual Directions, Calgary, Alberta
  • The College of Santa Fe, Santa Fe, New Mexico USA (starting Summer, 2008)
*Travel by arrangement to other locations		        

Imaginal Trackers Facilitators

Straja Linder King, MA. A.T.R.-BC    Madeline M. Rugh, Ph.D. A.T.R.-BC
Tangus, TDI Certified

Authors of The Way of the Imaginal Tracker (soon to be published)
Madeline Rugh

Madeline M. Rugh, PhD, A.T.R.-BC mmrugh@stgregorys.edu

Madeline lives in Oklahoma. She specializes in program development and research at the interface of art, nature and spirituality with older adults. Madeline holds a Ph.D. in adult education, an MA in art education and a B.F.A. in fine arts. She is certified as a specialist in aging and has special education endorsements.  Madeline has been a consultant with the Society for the Arts in Healthcare and provided expert written testimony to the U.S. congress on art and aging. She was a recipient of a postdoctoral research grant with the National Institute of Aging. Madeline has taught at the graduate and undergraduate levels for 20 years. She presents at numerous national and international and multi-cultural conferences including the Native Elders conferences held in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and the International Indian Nations conference held in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Madeline is a visual artist working in painting, mixed media, rug weaving, movement (Tai Chi, Huna – sacred water rhythms, and Shamanic ecstatic body postures).
  
Straja Linder King Embodying Spirit

Straja Linder King, M.A., A.T.R.-BC strajalk@shaw.ca

Straja holds a Master’s degree in Art Therapy and two bachelors degrees with distinction in fine art and art history from the University of Calgary. Ms. Linder King has pioneered art in healing from a spiritual/nature-based perspective in Alberta. She is a printmaker, published poet and percussionist. Straja developed the Strawberry Tree Studio, the only open art studio in Calgary where she works with her International Therapy Dog Tangus, a recent recipient of the Alberta Heart of the Hero dog of the year award. Tangus and Straja specialize in bringing the healing expressive arts to persons with bereavement and grief issues. Straja is certified in Healing Touch for animals and EGALA (equine assisted therapy). A highly skilled clinician, Straja has taught and supervised for over 10 years at both the graduate and undergraduate levels.
  
Tangus

Tangus, Co-therapist, CGC tangus@shaw.ca

Tangus is a registered Shiloh Shepherd born September, 5th 2000. He has his canine good citizen papers (CGC). Tangus, a sweet and gentle companion animal, is popular for his tail wagging and affection. He is a born four legged healer who embraces life and has a natural ability to adapt to almost any situation. Tangus, one of the sweetest dogs, can best be described as a four legged angel who adds joy to the world with his unconditional love. He understands your every mood and often mirrors your emotions. Note however, that he expects to be engaged in play and petted by everyone he meets. Tangus looks forward to meeting everyone from the youngest to the eldest. Tangus's favorite hangout is pressing his nose against the window quietly watching the sunset. If you would like to talk to Tangus, e-mail him at tangus@shaw.ca

October 22, 2005 Tangus recieved a Hero Award from the Pet Therapy Society of Northern Alberta. He was nominated by Madeline Rugh for his therapeutic touch and heroism in protecting her from two black bears.

I think that dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me they are the role models for being alive. - Gilda Radner

Click here to learn more about animal assisted therapy

Calgary Herald Article on Tangus and Animal Assisted Therapy

 

"Art Heals... Imagine That"