Art for Healing

Those that really know me understand that I am also very passionate about using art as a vessel for exploration and self discovery. I enjoy helping others heal through art. Also, I have continued to use art as a tool to raise awareness about mental illness. 

At Hartford Art School I participated in an Arts and Healthcare class. I worked one on one with a resident at a rehabilitation center in Bloomfield, Connecticut. Here is my mention in the Observer Magazine, University of Hartford - See the highlighted areas. 

Autism Awareness

Photo Caption: Autism Awareness Dog, Windsor Education Foundation - Windsor, CT

I raised autism awareness by painting a ceramic dog with puzzle pieces, the recognized symbol for autism, for the Windsor Education Foundation. The dog was later named "Puzzles," and was on display throughout Windsor, CT until he finally reached his forever home at the Walgreen's Distribution Center in Windsor, CT. Walgreens employs many individuals with disabilities.

Wounded Warrior - PTSD is Forever

Photo Caption: Me in front of my billboard, Wounded Warrior - PTSD on display at Island Park in Sarasota, Florida.

Wounded Warrior - PTSD is Forever is a social art piece that aims to raise awareness about PTSD. This artwork was selected out of 10,000 submissions for the Embracing Our Differences Outdoor Show at Island Park in Sarasota, Florida. Embracing our Differences is a wonderful organization that "envisions a world that embraces diversity, respects differences and actively rejects hatred and prejudice." The reception for this show was held by Ringling School of Art and Design. To learn more, click here. 

Art Healing Teaching

While working for Camp Simon Art Center & Eastern Services, I created many painting demos, taught private lessons, paint socials, and also assisted with their after school therapeutic program. I enjoyed teaching, especially more intimate classes because it gave me a chance to really see how others work and to see their artistic process. I always encouraged individuals to "do their own thing," and  "it doesn't have to look like mine."  

Therapeutic Classes

Photo Caption: Artwork from a student at NBMAA

Recently I taught a therapeutic art class at the New Britain Museum of American Art. Everyone had such a blast and they didn't want to leave!