The ART of RECOVERY

In Spring 2006 Trinity Cathedral was the scene of a very special art exhibition. ECVA NJ presented The Art of Recovery, which featured paintings, drawings, and three-dimensional works by the artists of “Partners in Recovery”, a program of Catholic Charities, and the “A-Team Artists of Trenton”, an independent artists’ group based at the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen (TASK).  The work was on display in Synod Hall from May through July.  An opening reception was held Thursday, May 18.

The works offered a window into the minds and hearts of those who are taking positive steps towards wholeness and independence in light of personal struggles. For each of them, the creation of art plays an important part in that journey. Just as moving as the artwork itself were some of the statements made by the artists:

When I’m painting it’s an incredible feeling all in my mind, body, and soul. —Chris Dennis, Partners in Recovery

I hope through my ability that I will be successful. If this is my calling, I’d like to reach out and help people like they’ve helped me regain some self-esteem. I’d like to make people happy and to make something unique. —William Hodges, A-Team Artists of Trenton

A white dude on death row when I was in jail in my twenties taught me how to make frames out of cigarette packs. Now I do my own style. Ever since I’ve been weaving frames and crosses, I’ve been glad. When I’m doing art, I feel perfect. —Herman Rose, A-Team Artists of Trenton

On hand to greet the guests at the opening reception were Bishop George Councell and his wife, Ruth. Guests included the director and members of the staff at Catholic Charities, the co-ordinator and members of TASK, and the staff of the Soup Kitchen as well as the clients and artists of the two agencies, and many of their family members. The Diocesan family was well represented, as some of the Diocesan staff and Standing Committee members popped in from across the street. Some good connections were made, and the artists felt affirmed and appreciated. Several of the pieces were sold, the proceeds going directly to the artists. As an added treat, James Coleman, a TASK artist, sang gospel songs for us a capella. Reporters from The Trentonian and Trenton Times were present and both newspapers featured articles on the exhibition.

Partners in Recovery is a partial care program of Catholic Charities which provides integrated treatment of the co-occurring disorders of mental illness and substance abuse.  A Recovery Model is followed as members are viewed as active, responsible partners in their treatment. 

The A-Team Artists of Trenton grew out of the “Extra Helpings” program of the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen. They are still based at TASK but have become an independent business entity, a limited liability partnership run by the artists themselves.

Click each image for a larger version.

Fire Blooms By Lawrence Wiles Acrylic	Left and Right Sight By Lawrence Wiles Acrylic	Day at the Beach By Robert D. Autrey Acrylic
Two Men By Frankie Mack Acrylic on Panel	Silver/Comic Frame & Box By Herman Rose Mixed Media	Sunset Somewhere By Stephen Hoffman Acrylic
Wild Horses By John Hayes Acrylic	Tailspin By Ramon De Graff Acrylic
Eve By Brook Beatty Mixed Media Doll	Blue Woman By Lorna Lorraine Mixed Media