Art Workshop for People Experiencing Homelessness

Art Therapy: Connecting with Your Inner Self

Art therapist Fiona Wilks will be facilitating a free creative workshop at Fletcher Street Cottage on June 28 for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

“Art therapy provides a means of communicating how we feel to others,” says Fiona. “By expressing our inner world, we can better understand ourselves and find meaning in our creations. It also helps process emotions, past trauma and can support us to move towards positive goals.”

Housing insecurity and homelessness are associated with adverse mental health effects, and the Home is Where the Art Is workshop will give people the space to spark creativity, and explore their self expression.

How Does it Work

“Day to day life for people who are experiencing homelessness can be a huge struggle,” says Fiona. “Creative art therapy workshops can provide a positive outlet, where we can find relief from these stresses and be absorbed in the therapeutic creative process.

The nature of using our hands can get us out of our busy minds and into a relaxed and contemplative state. Research indicates the act of creating, similar to meditation, can support our wellbeing through improved brain function and mental and physical health.”

The Workshop

Fletcher Street Cottage offers a welcoming and respectful space where people sleeping rough can come to get a meal, do some laundry and have a shower, as well as find connection and access referrals and support.

The homeless hub will come alive with creativity on this day and the doors will be open to those that use the service, to partake in art making and conversation in a supportive and nurturing space.

 “This workshop focuses on the process of creativity, rather than creating a masterpiece,” adds Fiona. “There is great benefit in creating and sharing within a group, where the art can act as a bridge of connection and understanding and strengthen relationships within the community.”

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Home Is Where the Art Is - Art workshop to spark creativity and self expression at Fletcher Street Cottage.
Wednesday 28th June
12:30pm - 2:30pm

18 Fletcher Street, Byron Bay

Event: https://www.fletcherstreetcottage.com.au/events

Creative Art Therapy: www.nestwellbeing.com