The Art of Healing

What is art? Is it the process of creation? A means of expression? In a new studio space in Pawtucket’s Hope Artiste Village, it is both of these things united by a resonating message of hope.

PeaceLove Studios co-founder Jeffrey Sparr is poignantly candid about the sometimes seemingly insurmountable challenge of living with mental illness. Diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disease as a young man, Jeffrey faced a disease that is both invisible and often misunderstood. He points to a family photograph taken at Disney World, paralyzing anxiety hidden behind his smile. It was not long after this photo was taken that he wandered into a painting class that would be the start of a journey spreading inspiration to a community in need of a creative outlet.

Why was that class so significant? Jeffrey describes the benefits as three-fold. First was gaining back some of the feeling of control which his illness has stripped from him, brushstroke by brushstroke. Secondly was the peace of mind from painting, finding a hobby that was both relaxing and rewarding. Last was the blank canvas, devoid of barriers or pre-determined notions. It was a space to unleash creativity and vision. Jeffrey’s compositions could illustrate the things he couldn’t otherwise express.

“Not despite, but because of my illness I felt I was uniquely qualified to communicate a message of hope and acceptance for mental illness,” says Jeffrey on his “a-ha” moment when he realized that he could share this outlet to help others.

“With a focus on creating mental wellness through art, our programs create a framework for inspiration, healing and personal growth,” says CEO and co-founder Matt Kaplan.

The Studio operates under the motto “wear, share and experience.” “Wear” refers to the in-house designed PeaceLove art, apparel and a new Alex and Ani Charity By Design bracelet. Those sales cover the workshop cost for others to come to PeaceLove to share their own stories and experience the unique transformative process of artistic creation.

Workshops run the gamut both in terms of techniques and catering to difference audiences. “People who come to us uncertain about our process, leave having experienced what is often described as life changing and extremely positive,” says Program Director Amy Kinney. “Each time someone opens up about their experience with mental illness, I am in awe at the raw honesty and eager desire for connection that occurs so naturally.”

What’s in store for PeaceLove in 2014? Their Alex and Ani bracelets will be available nationwide this April. As far as programs go, there’s a new weekly expressive arts program developed for Veterans coping with PTSD at the Providence VA Medical Center as well. Las Vegas will also be getting its own flagship PeaceLove Studio later this summer, in partnership with Zappos. com CEO Tony Hsieh and his community-enriching Downtown Project. “We believe a PeaceLove Studios belongs in every community, and Tony and his group have embraced our movement like no other,” says Matt of the collaboration. From Providence to cities across the country, the PeaceLove movement is spreading and Jeffrey, Matt, Amy and the team are ready to run with it. 99 Main St, Unit #704, Pawtucket. 475-9778.