Art Smarts!

Someone recently asked me why I have so many arts-based posts in the #365ofgoodWR project. I believe there are a wide variety of reasons to include 'the arts' in a project that highlights good things happening in the community, but a couple come to mind immediately.

First, the arts encourage exploration and discussion of important and pressing issues in our society. This can lead to real and positive changes. For example, this week I attended Guarded Girls through Green Light Arts, a play that explores the experience and role of incarceration in our communities. The play was powerful and thought provoking and I'm sure sparked some important conversations among attendees. In addition, Green Light Arts sold popcorn from the newly established Cons and Kernels. This supports a new business as well as brings awareness to the challenges formerly incarcerated people face in gaining employment.

Image by garageband from Pixabay

I also believe arts are therapeutic. This article in the Record shows one way the arts are being used to support children born of India's sex trade workers. Also, one of my favourite local artists Pamela Rojas offers art classes through Reception House for newly arrived families and children. Both of these projects offer an opportunity to explore, reflect upon, and work through their experiences.
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These are only a few examples of why arts has been, and will continue to be, highlighted often in the #365ofgoodWR project. Why do you think arts are an important part of our community? Comment below!