Ringing in Art for the New Year

“If I could say it in words there would be no reason to paint.” ~ Edward Hopper

One of the meaningful benefits of art is that it allows us to express things we might not be able to verbalize. For children this can be especially true, whether they don’t have the words, or feel unable to say them.

In one recent group, the participants were making gingerbread houses – first decorating flat pieces of cardboard, then assembling them to create a three-dimensional holiday decoration. One young girl chose to leave her house flat, and though she spent time carefully decorating it with glitter, she chose not to assemble it.

“I thought it was an awesome idea,” said the facilitator of the group, “and a perfect metaphor for the lack of a substantial home in her life.”

Creating that space for expression is our primary focus. Giving the kids a secure, familiar and trustworthy environment allows them to feel free enough to explore and emote.

“Art is our one true global language. It knows no nation, it favors no race, and it acknowledges no class. It speaks to our need to reveal, heal and transform. It transcends our ordinary lives and lets us imagine what is possible.” ~ Richard Kamler

We have an ambitious plan for the next several months, to open five or more new sites, giving more children the opportunity to take part in and benefit from our art groups. With the help of a new Program Manager, we are fulfilling our mission to help as many Bay Area homeless and underserved children as we can.

Wishing everyone a healthy, happy and artistic New Year.