Heart and Soul -free art program for cancer patients

Heart & Soul – A free arts program for those affected by cancer

Psychosocial interventions, especially supportive-expressive group therapies, have been associated with significant improvements in health status, quality of life and coping behaviours, in patients with cancer.
The purpose of the proposed pilot is to be able to provide caregivers and cancer patients tools and training in creative expression as a complimentary treatment method.
Heart & Soul integrates known benefits of art therapy, group therapy, and mindfulness-based stress reduction.
Each of these fundamentally different modalities has documented usefulness in the treatment of cancer patients.
The multi-modal approach is designed to enhance both the supportive and expressive aspects of the group experience.
The creative arts are gentle therapies that are especially helpful during difficult times, when one might feel overwhelmed with diagnoses and treatment plans.
It is good to be in a place where there is no confrontation, labeling, or definition in order to find a quiet and healing space inside.
The Creative Arts Specialist, James Blair, facilitates artwork with members. Individuals who are interested may do art on their own or work in a group setting.

Throughout the year, guest artists will offer workshops in collage, landscape painting, and other artistic mediums to members.
At the end of each season members will be offered a chance to enter pieces in the Heart and Soul art show. This venture invites the public to engage in discussions about cancer. This will also stand as a visual depiction of the lives of cancer patients in Hamilton On.