March 28, 2024

The "Art of Recovery" Exhibit

Posted

In February 2012, Jim H, a consumer at East Bay Center, approached staff about the possibility of starting an art class at the Center. Jim had never run an art class before, but had worked in various mediums of the art process throughout much of his life. He talked about his love of art with such passion; sharing some of his paintings like they were DaVinci’s own “Mona Lisa”. Jim said his art “got him through some really difficult times” in his life.

During the months of February/March 2012, Jim fulfilled his dream and facilitated several art classes of various mediums (basic drawing, painting on canvas, tree etchings, and more) to up to eight adults at EBC. They were inspired to use art as an outlet for self-expression during their ongoing recovery with mental illness. Some of the newfound artists shared: “The classes got me out of bed and out of the house”, “I met some great people who shared my love of the arts”, “I didn’t know art could be so much fun”, and “I feel better when I come to the art classes”.

When the classes ended, their self-expression and inspiration for wanting more did not diminish. EBC had the opportunity to apply for and received a generous grant from the East Bay Family Care Community Partnership (FCCP) to continue art classes during “May is Mental Health Month”. Amy Kinney from PeaceLove Studios was contacted and developed four art classes for the children of EBC’s Family Outpatient Program. They also provided four programs for adults, including photography and other art mediums. PeaceLove graciously provided the instructors and materials, while EBC provided space and the budding artists. The classes allowed some children for the first time to positively express their moods and feelings through decoupage, mandala art, t-shirt making, and mask making. More importantly they learned and applied coping and communication skills, developed positive friendships, and had an outlet to pursue creative expression.

As part of May is Mental Health Month, a photography exhibit was held at EBC on May 10th and an art exhibit was held on May 24th. Both events were a resounding success, as consumers socialized, shared their new experiences with artistic expression, built on new friendships, enjoyed good food, and even sang some Karaoke. One artist was even fortunate enough to sell one of her paintings to a visitor of the exhibit!

The events culminated with posthumously honoring a long time client of EBC, who during his life, provided artistic inspiration himself, who thought each day of recovery was a gift, who honored his mother for her unyielding love and support, and whose own paintings – showcasing amazing diversity and talent – permanently decorate the walls of EBC.

EBC would like to give special thanks to Cheryl Hopkins, Client Advocacy Manager, Nancy Guertin, Family Outpatient Program Director, and the members of the Peer Advocacy and Learning Center (PALC) of EBC, who worked tirelessly to promote and conduct these events.

EBC’s mission has remained the same for many years – to improve the lives of individuals and families within our communities by providing a broad range of high quality mental health and addiction services. Especially in the face of adversity, EBC will be here to help you, your family, and your community. We encourage you to visit our website at www.eastbay.org for information regarding services, employment, locations, etc. To speak to someone regarding services or to schedule an appointment, please call 401-246-1195 and ask for “Intake”.

East Bay Center, art, recovery, mental illness

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here


Share!
Truly local news delivered to every home in town