Erika
I love how it helped my mental and emotional health, and how relaxed and calm I felt. Feeling connected in a positive and supportive environment with others who understand what I’m going through, is what I liked most.
Sarah
I feel at peace and have received so much support! It was amazing, helpful, and I loved it all.
Pam
I loved meeting other beautiful people who are dealing with the same issues I am facing. It was healing, relaxing and helpful to me and I enjoyed all of it!
Julia
The therapeutic value of this healing experience is immeasurable. No judgement or criticisms, just a supportive atmosphere of mutual understanding. What a pleasure!
Donna
This place and the people help me with socializing. When I talk about my issues with others, it makes me feel deeply connected, and I can’t wait for the next one!
Chris
I was able to reflect on myself in a more positive way. I learned that my desire is to always be surrounded by love and that the duality within me is perfectly fine because at my center is joy, brightness and life.
Tina
I never would have thought I could paint, but after this workshop I feel empowered! I loved the energy and support with everyone, they touched me deeply!
Marta
My favorite part was the sharing of emotions and experiences with other women.. Although I felt insecure about my ability to paint. I now understand how I painted didn’t matter. What mattered were the feelings I felt, expressed and shared! Thank you!
Nicole
These workshops help me fight off depression and anxiety from the emotional pain associated with my diagnosis. I always leave a workshop feeling more refreshed and recharged!
Teresa
I didn’t know how vulnerable I still am and how much I need support from fellow cancer warriors. Togetherness is key to my journey.
Transformations on the Beach
This past summer, I had the privilege of teaching art to the incredible participants at My Day Counts, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering adults with intellectual disabilities. Week after week, it was a profound joy to connect with each individual right where they were, embracing the beauty of their unique path toward growth and healing.
Together, we navigated moments of vulnerability and apprehension, celebrating their courage as they opened themselves to the creative process. With each session, I witnessed their confidence blossom, their imaginations ignite, and their connections with one another deepen. The stories they poured into their art and the light they brought to each class will stay with me forever. The summer of ’24 wasn’t just about teaching, it was about being profoundly touched by the lives I was honored to share it with.
Here’s a brief look at five lives who found their creative spark on the beach!
Asher
Before: Talented but lacked confidence and was overly perfectionistic.
After: Embraced a freer, more intuitive approach to art and found joy in imperfection, filling his sketchbook with newfound creativity.
Stephanie D.
Before: Hesitant with color mixing and shy in communication.
After: Mastered color mixing as a true color expert, with vibrant, detailed artwork and increased confidence in expressing herself.
Michael
Before: Reserved, unsure of how to channel his energy into art and community.
After: Emerged as a leader, joyfully assisting and supporting others, bringing positive energy to all aspects of his life.
Dylan
Before: Preferred familiar mediums and styles, hesitant to explore new techniques.
After: Discovered his unique artistic voice, blending techniques and stories with confidence, fueled by joy and imagination.
Stephanie A.
Before: Quick artist with spare time but hesitant to connect deeply.
After: The group’s social butterfly, uplifting and inspiring others while creating art that radiates her unique personality.