Unveiling Resilience: The Power of Art and Collaboration at Providence House

Last weekend, our talented residents and Providence House Staff came together to reveal what had been the product of a beautiful collaboration: a stunning new mural for our Women’s Justice Program building. Symbolizing emotional safety, beauty, and the power of working together, this artwork speaks volumes about the journey of healing and empowerment. 

Providence House collaborated with Project Attica, an arts education organization made to educate the public on the status of mass incarceration as it relates to underserved youth through art-based education and activities. Through a series of workshops and sessions facilitated by Creative Arts Therapist Olivia Porter and the team from Project Attica, the residents explored themes of identity, resilience, and hope. The process of creating art and the common goal of creating a lasting mural allowed the residents to connect with their peers in meaningful ways.

Olivia Porter took a moment to say a few words at the unveiling ceremony.

“Our process began with having a conversation with the residents and asking questions, like how things are important to us and what are the changes we want to see in our community. And the other big question we asked was, what do we think of when we think of Providence House? The things that question brought up were support and safety. Not just safety physically but safety emotionally. We were able to flesh out how to provide that for our clients and the different ways our clients can provide that for each other.”

The mural itself is a tapestry of emotions: a purple butterfly atop a fully bloomed flower, surrounded on either side by colorful figures holding up the butterfly’s wings. Safety, beauty, and collaboration come together in this artwork, a perfect beacon of hope for all who encounter it. 

Huge thanks to our incredible Creative Arts Therapist, Olivia Porter, and Project Attica for leading this transformative process. Art is not just a medium; it's a tool for rehabilitation and self-expression. Here's to the limitless creativity and strength within us all!