ArtVan
Categories
Arts & Culture Non Profit Organizations
About
ArtVan delivers art therapy to participants in their community. Rolling into 15 core neighborhoods in Lewiston, Auburn, Bath, Brunswick, Rumford, and Mexico, in a colorful 15-passenger van, ArtVan removes financial and transportation barriers to mental health services.
Working out of public schools, libraries, housing authorities, community centers it runs regular sessions guiding participants through creative exploration.
Sessions help participants develop an emotional toolkit for navigating both simple life experiences and complex uncertainties. While working on art projects, facilitators guide conversations around the participants' images and the themes presented. Over time, the goal is to help participants build emotional resilience and address specific emotions through their creative expression.
ArtVan promotes problem-solving skills, a sense of belonging, communication, emotional regulation, connection and collaboration, and a safe space to create.
Specifically in Lewiston and Auburn, ArtVan works in Lewiston Middle School, Lewiston Public Library, Auburn PAL, Center for Women's Wisdom, Family Development, Broadview Acres, and Family 4ME.