Welcome to Art Is Therapy
Step into our world where creativity thrives and self-expression is celebrated. Whether you're exploring our origin story, getting to know our passionate team, or curious about how art can be therapeutic, you're in for an experience unlike any other.
Art is Therapy was conceptualized as a means to share talent and actualize art as a healing modality within the community. As an immersive and interactive art exhibit, our goal is to create spaces that allow individuals to process human emotion and connect with others through art.
Experiences speak volumes, so get ready to immerse yourself in a journey with us.
About us…
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To create experiences that allow individuals to process human emotion & connect with others through art.
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We envision a diverse community where everyone is empowered to express themselves in a healthy manner.
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1. Mental health matters, so does expression.
2. Everyone deserves access and education.
3. The arts unify communities and stimulate innovation.
How Art is Therapy started…
Lianna Velez is the founder and creative director for the Art is Therapy program, an immersive and interactive art exhibit and mental health awareness workshop.
Velez is a Puerto Rican-American, New Jersey native that came to Chattanooga in 2011. From her experience with mental health recovery over the past decade, she’s become an advocate of the arts and mental well-being. She’s a brave, resilient, “pissed-off Latina” who discovered that “it’s a gift to share what’s underneath the anger.”
During the day, Velez is a Recovery Coach and Case Manager at the AIM Center, a local non-profit and the only psychosocial rehabilitation facility accredited by Clubhouse International in the State of Tennessee. Velez remains dedicated to uplifting marginalized individuals and supporting underserved communities.