Art Residency Ignites Hope in Recovery Community

Quick Smiles:

• Innovative art program shines light on marginalized recovery journeys.
• Collaborative workshops foster connection and creativity among participants.
• Exhibition celebrates the power of art to support healing and inclusion.

A groundbreaking art residency in Greater Manchester is helping people recovering from substance use rediscover joy and belonging through creative collaboration.

The partnership between Castlefield Gallery and the Anew therapeutic community brought together contemporary designer Joe Hartley and around 60 participants for hands-on workshops in ceramics and photography.

“Our ethos is about looking at arts and culture as part of people’s recovery journey, and about making social change through arts and culture,” said Dominic Pillai, curator of social engagement at Portraits of Recovery.

One memorable exercise saw each person contribute a unique part to teapots, emphasizing teamwork and inclusion.

“It can be bleak in the recovery process, but we wanted to make sure it was joyous, and that it helped create community and connection,” Pillai shared.

For Hartley, whose brother was lost to substance use, the project’s outcomes were deeply moving, showing that new, positive paths are possible.

The creative works are now being showcased at Castlefield Gallery, proof that recovery can be a source of hope and renewed community spirit.

If you loved this story, share some positivity with a friend or support initiatives that help make a difference every day!

Source