Organization Details

BACKGROUND The creation of art can relay the narrative of a culture and the social problems people face by giving them the opportunity to express themselves freely. It can address mental health, education and personal/community development by affecting change and making a lasting positive difference to people?s lives. As a collective society, we recognize the value of traditional education. But art teaches what multiplication tables cannot. Art stimulates the creativity that fosters problem solving and strengthens confidence.

People who have experienced the most extreme traumas - such as war, disease and abuse - as well as those who simply feel disconnected, struggling to use their innate abilities to fight for survival or just find the inspiration to face a new day, all need art. Painting, storytelling through theater, performing traditional dances and singing songs are all creative tools that touch our hearts and reach into our innermost passions.

One purpose behind Artfully AWARE is to stimulate the artistic senses of communities that have been deprived of creativity for extended periods of time. Developing countries throughout Africa, Asia and Latin American have rich histories of artistic tradition. It is mainly due to poverty, repressive governance or lack of opportunity that the arts stop flourishing and people can no longer find their artistic voice.

In countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom, the arts are becoming less prevalent and underfunded. In response to this, AfA?s other main purpose is to provide resources and creative outlets for participants coming from schools and community centers while participating in and forming advocacy events.

Artfully AWARE intends to work closely with community members, motivating them to gain strength and obtain a higher quality of life. Only when their psychological well-being is addressed and they find this impetus within themselves, can people overcome challenging situations and transform the world in which they live.

Address

201 E 17th Street 27D
New York, NY 10003
(941) 350-8195

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