Gifts of Light’s Art Cart Program

Activities that counter boredom and idleness are important tools in the recovery process. For patients at CAMH, creating and engaging with art provides an alternative way to cope and an outlet to channel emotions.

"It’s never good with a mental illness to be not doing anything. You allow for space and time to worry and ruminate. People can feel like they’re going to lose themselves. That translates into being less engaged and hopeful in care."
— Dr. Sean Kidd, clinical psychologist at CAMH

This year, through Gifts of Light, the Art Cart program was launched. The Art Cart connects artists who have experienced mental illness to patients on their journey to recovery.

Our partnership with Workman Arts

Gifts of Light has teamed up with Workman Arts, an arts and mental health organization. Workman Arts is known internationally for its artistic collaborations, presentations, knowledge exchange best practices and research on the impact that art has on the quality of life for people living with mental illness and addiction.

Through this collaboration, CAMH patients are connected with artistic materials and artists who have lived experience with mental illness. Artists bring with them the Art Cart of supplies, having been paired with units based on the specific interests in art mediums and projects of the inpatients there. Artists develop a customized 12-week art program that best meets those patients’ interests. Classes typically run for one hour and are flexible for newcomers to join as necessary.

“We are delighted to offer and support this unique opportunity to our patients,” says Quinn Kirby, Program Manager with CAMH’s Gifts of Light program. “We understand there is a need for more funding around the arts. We also know there is a lot of untapped talent waiting to be discovered and with inspiring workshops such as these, we may be able to change that.”

Help patients express their emotions and reduce stress — purchase Expression through Art.