Around 100 pieces of artwork created by homeless people in the metro have gone on display in the Paseo. Former swimming pool turned art space The Paseo Plunge will be hosting the display throughout October.
The featured artists are part of the Homeless Alliance’s Fresh Start program, whose classes are held twice a week at the organization’s WestTown Homeless Resource Campus.
Fresh Start artist Lee developed a love of painting as a child, but stopped creating work after getting married and having children. When her circumstances changed and she became homeless, she discovered the program and started painting again.
“I like to make art,” Lee says. “It takes my mind off everything else going on in my life. It is nice and peaceful here.”
The Homeless Alliance’s executive director Dan Straughan said creating art can provide a potential source of income for the artists, and can help them to build the skills and confidence needed to get back into employment.
“Art allows people to temporarily escape their difficult situations, and provides an opportunity to interact with peers in a positive environment,” Straughan adds. “And when an artist sells something that they created, it really helps build their confidence knowing that someone else values their work.”
The exhibition is open Tuesdays through Sundays at the art space located at 3010 Paseo, until Sunday, Oct. 29; more information can be found here.
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