The Joyful Ladies: Art as Healing, Community as Medicine

Walk into the Art as Healing class on a Friday morning, and you’re greeted not just by paints and brushes, but by laughter, gentle encouragement, and the unmistakable warmth of belonging. It’s the kind of room where stories are painted as vividly as canvases, and where healing is as much about community as it is about art.

Meet the Joyful Ladies

Miss Ida, Miss Deatrice, and Miss Brenda, known affectionately as the Joyful Ladies, are some of the original members of the growing yet close-knit group. For two or three years now, they’ve gathered in this creative haven. “Gathering with people as a group, I love that,” Miss Ida shares, her eyes shining. Here, everybody contributes: new ideas, laughter, and sometimes, even tears.

The Healing Hour

Painting, sculpting, jewelry making, Friday’s Art as Healing is more than an art class; it’s a healing hour. It’s a sanctuary where hands busy with beads and brushes unlock honest, sometimes serious conversations. “When you’re working with your hands, people open up,” Miss Deatrice adds. She’s known to bring the group some of the best snacks, from donuts and cookies to fresh fruit.  In these moments, art has become a pathway to connection and emotional release.

In the most recent class, participants met our newest Art Therapist, Raneem Alnahhas. Raneem has a bachelor’s degree in Ceramics Arts, a Master’s degree in Dance Movement Therapy, and, in her spare time, loves to dance Salsa. 

My background is rooted in expressive art and community work, and the belief that creativity can be a gentle doorway into emotional wellness. Seeing participants shape clay with their hands with joy and exploration reminded me why I love doing this work!

-Raneem “Nemo” Alnahhas, Art Therapist

 

Beyond the activities, the program (and the people in it) have built this warm atmosphere: “The room, and the ladies in the room, are even therapeutic,” Miss Deatrice shares. From making bracelets to joining our Quilt Corner class, the Joyful Ladies slow down, savor the present, and start the weekend together. 

“Let’s slow down for a second and start the weekend a little slower,” they agree, reminding us all of the restorative power of pausing. Every week, this group tries something new, such as canvas bags, jewelry, and more. “It’s always good to try. You find out what you like and what you don’t. Try something new,” Miss Deatrice adds while molding her cold clay into the shape of her shades. Their willingness to experiment embodies the spirit of curiosity and lifelong learning. Through their bond, they carry the art and healing beyond the center’s walls, connecting outside of class and supporting each other through life’s challenges. 

Join the Joyful Ladies And Find Your Own Joy

Our Art as Healing program is just one part of our holistic approach to emotional wellness. We believe in the power of community, creativity, and care. If you’re seeking a space to express yourself, connect with others, and nurture your well-being, we invite you to join us.

Take a moment out of your week, come see what the Joyful Ladies already know: Healing happens here. Learn more about our emotional wellness programming and upcoming classes. Your creative journey—and your community—are waiting.