The Tett Centre for Creativity and Learning is transcending the way arts and culture can
be experienced. Among the many accessible programs the centre offers, their latest
connection with Providence Care promises to be one of the most inspiring yet.
"Providence Care is currently going through a transformation in a very big way," explains
Tett Community Engagement Coordinator, Shannon Brown. "After several decades
providing hospital services, St. Mary's of the Lake Hospital and all of its programs are
moving to a new location next April."
During this transitional time, every Wednesday and Saturday starting at 1:30 pm over 12
periods, Tett artists will provide workshops focused on the process of moving and
transformation. Patients at St. Mary's, their families, and hospital staff can experience
healing art forms such as painting, drumming, drama and singing. Knowledgeable and
caring community artists will lead each of these workshops within the hospital.
"We felt that offering the arts to St. Mary's could address some of the anxiety or hopes
that might come with moving." says Shannon. "We understand as we just went through
this ourselves."
The arts are known as a healing tool that can help clear the mind and produce relaxed
states and new insights as well as a way to access and transform troubling thoughts.
This makes it an important addition to the routines of St. Mary's patients as they get
ready to move down the road.
"Moving Through the Arts Together" is made possible by an Artist in the
Community/Workplace grant from the Ontario Arts Council and through a partnership
between the Tett Centre and Providence Care. According to the OAC; the purpose of the
grant is to encourage artists and arts organizations from all arts disciplines to work with
communities through a collaborative co-creative process. Grants are designed to
integrate the arts into community life through artistic projects.