Expression from the Inside

Expression from the Inside includes trauma-informed expressive art workshops that provide participants with an opportunity for personal and emotional exploration through art. The program uses art as a tool for healing and is designed to help youth, families and mothers address trauma they have experienced due to violence, and develop greater emotional intelligence. 

Group sessions are limited to 20 participants to allow time for intimate discussion, individualized attention and, most importantly, to ensure a safe space for self-expression. Sessions are led by certified art instructors as part of its 10-part series, with each one designed around a selected theme to teach participants various techniques and help develop coping mechanisms and a deeper understanding of their personal experiences. 

Expression from the Inside also serves The Ladies of the Arc – a collective of mothers who have lost children to gun violence. The Ladies gather to provide community support as they navigate their grief and their healing journeys and use art as a tool to express their feelings and connect with their peers. Expression also offers a 10-week training to participants of Ladies of the Arc to help them become art facilitators and ultimately expand programming not only to other mothers, but participants in the One City basketball program.