Artwork > Community Art Workshops > Adult Workshops > Community Building
Woven Welcome, 2016
Golda Meir House, Newton
Residents from the Golda Meir House in Newton worked under the direction of Artist and Art Therapist Tova Speter to design and create a large collaborative art installation inspired by the colors of Spring and the vibrancy of community.
Residents had the opportunity to brainstorm ideas for a meaningful artwork during a community event, expressing interest in focusing on creating art that is colorful, welcoming, peaceful, balanced, bright, and happy. Participating residents came from English, Chinese, and Russian speaking communities, but they found a common language through art and the natural beauty of Spring. Residents have gardens at JCHE that they tend to, and their common love of nature and flowers served as a foundation for the artwork to come together.
After engaging with various materials, the project took shape with the goal of creating a unified artwork that focused on the colorful inspiration and memories participants had with regard to flowers and Springtime. Artwork was first created individually, then in pairs, and finally, all were woven to bring everyone's art together. No one artwork is more important or better than the next. Rather, each piece is unique and plays an important role in the overall tapestry of the community.
The three cultural communities are represented with three strands of dark green that serve as a foundation of each piece. The colors of each individual strand shine through the overall artwork, offering a glimpse into each artist's perspective while highlighting the extraordinary beauty that can be seen when the tryptic, and the JCHE community is observed as a whole.
Small moments worth mentioning:
A husband and wife painted together for the first time after having been married for over 50 years. They shared that they found something new they enjoy doing together.
A resident who didn't believe she was an artist reported feeling proud of the painting she created and stated that next time there is an art program she plans to attend.
An English speaking resident and Chinese speaking resident created a painting together, communicating through their art and supporting each other throughout. At the end of the session, they had made plans to attend a future program together.
Staff got involved too, and bonded during a session in which they painted pieces to contribute to the larger artwork.
Residents also had a hand in weaving the final piece, making color/design choices and connecting with young adults brought in to volunteer for the final session.