Testimonials

From Youth Participants 

Damien: “Abstract painting brought out my imagination and a new way to express my life.”

Gilbert: “I started out just trying to help out but then I found it took my mind off of stressful things.”

Isaiah J: “When I am relaxed in art then I have confidence.”

Gabriel: “My upside-down tree, Expressive tree with color fields. Looking at trees outside inspired me to create a magical looking tree. The process showed me patience.”

From Probation, Behavioral Health, and Juvenile Justice Team members

“I think some of the highlights have been when the kids are getting positively reinforced for their work–it’s good for their self-esteem.

Another good highlight is the emotions shared by the kids when they make the cards to show remorse and emotions to their families. It’s hard for them to show emotions, and they do a great job through making those cards and gifts for their families.

When they move up to wall pictures and they get framed, that gives them a huge sense of pride. When you show them that their artwork is being displayed in different locations, it’s good for them. (Particularly when they can see their art on TV in the background of a news story!)

One of the biggest highlights is the huge murals. Not only are they going to be around a while, but so many artists from around the county, from all levels, got to work on creating them. Everyone got to make a contribution to the work … even the therapist!

Overall, the program has been able to take a group of kids that are hard to work with and pull out good emotions and positive effects, including creativity, from them. It’s been able to refocus their energy from their dark places and given them something positive to showcase what they can do.”

Mary A Unruh-Tipton, MFT
Psychiatric Social Worker II
County of Monterey