By Maggie Bohlman, Executive Director
At Piece by Piece, we witness daily the transformative power of art in fostering healing. During this Mental Health Awareness Month, I've been contemplating the vital role creativity plays in mental wellness—particularly for those who have endured challenges such as homelessness, trauma, and economic instability. The recent book "Your Brain on Art" by Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross eloquently articulates what we observe in our workshops: creating art fundamentally alters the brain.
Their research is compelling. Engaging in art activates reward pathways, lowers cortisol levels, and fortifies the brain areas responsible for resilience, emotional regulation, and connection. In essence, art facilitates healing from within. It’s not merely beneficial; it’s crucial for well-being.
At Piece by Piece, we go beyond teaching mosaic techniques. We offer a nurturing environment where participants can directly experience these benefits. Each tile placed, each color selected, each design completed represents a meaningful act of rebuilding. Participants who have faced significant instability find focus, joy, and community—one piece at a time.
When a participant artist shares that creating mosaics has made them feel calmer, more confident, or simply proud of their creation—that's the healing power of art in action. It’s the invisible transformation that accompanies the visible beauty of the finished mosaic. Participant Andrea expressed, "Mosaic art helps me be present. It alleviated my anxiety by allowing me to focus on the moment instead of worrying about the future."
We believe everyone deserves access to this form of healing, especially those who have faced homelessness, economic hardship, and trauma. That’s why Piece by Piece provides free workshops, a supportive community, and opportunities to earn income through our social enterprise—all rooted in the belief that creativity can unlock a better life.
This month and every month, we honor the resilience of our participant artists and the pivotal role art plays in their journeys. We invite you to join us—by supporting their work, celebrating creativity, and sharing our belief that art possesses the power to heal.
Learn more about the amazing Piece by Piece participant artists and our programs on our website.
