Artship at Fellowship Place A Group Exhibition
Guest Curator: Laura Spinelli, Art Therapist, Fellowship Place |
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Fellowship Place is
a nonprofit psychosocial rehabilitation facility dedicated to promoting
wellness and recovery by offering education, opportunities, and
resources for people diagnosed with psychiatric disabilities. The Expressive
Arts program at Fellowship Place, coordinated by Laura Spinelli, Art
Therapist, offers members the opportunity for self expression through
the visual and literary arts, music, and performing arts. This rich
and diverse Arts program is based on the premise that creative self
expression is an essential part of the recovery process and mental wellness—that
there is an inherent healing power in the creation of art.
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The particular challenge of coping with mental illness often results in social stigma and disconnection and alienation from the self and the world around us. Through the creation of unique pieces of art, members are able to share personal visions, life struggles and accomplishments, and transform feelings of isolation into a deeper sense of connection and healing. This has the power of continually renewing a sense of hope and of self-worth. ArtShip is an artists cooperative at Fellowship Place. The Mission of ArtShip is to offer support and opportunities to Fellowship Place artists in order to foster self-expression through the arts and promote community collaboration and recognition. The goal of ArtShip at Fellowship Place is to provide an environment where self-taught, intuitive contributions in all forms of artistic expression can be explored, recognized, and celebrated. ArtShip identifies artists' needs and dreams including gallery space, supplies, and community recognition. Future goals for ArtShip include the exploration of short-term & long-term potential entrepreneurial endeavors, the provision of ongoing professional development & arts training for members, and the building and strengthening of community partnerships. ArtShip has already gained community recognition with the 2003 award from the Arts Council of Greater New Haven for one of the most "Art outstanding organizations in New Haven". The works of art featured here were created by members of ArtShip. The artists sincerely hope that the work presented in this exhibit will inspire a greater understanding of the experience of mental illness and a witnessing of the healing power of creativity as an expression of mental wellness. In addition, it is the artist's hope that the viewing of their work will inspire others in their quest for creative self-expression.
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Artist Reception: Sunday, August 1, 4:00 - 6:00 PM Exhibit: July 29 - August 30, 2004 |
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The
York Square Cinema Gallery
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Gallery curator: Johnes Ruta (203) 387-4933 |
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