Overview/Mission

BACKGROUND

Path with Art began as a group of committed volunteers teaching art classes at a homeless shelter in Seattle. After witnessing the life-affirming effects of the creative process in a group setting, founders Laurel Doody and Deborah Blake set out to formalize the program and establish Path with Art as a nonprofit organization. Today we are recognized as a unique local organization dedicated to leveraging sustainable partnerships that aid in the delivery of quality arts-based programming to adults working to improve their lives. By bringing together arts organizations, social service providers and artists, we strive to enhance the lives of our community’s most vulnerable citizens. Currently, Path with Art produces 20 classes, facilitates 12 local Access Art outings, and hosts 4 events celebrating students’ work each year.

Our multi-faceted programming breaks down the traditional barriers that exist in access to arts and culture. Engaging in the creative process, program participants receive respect, gain self-confidence, and connect more deeply to the world around them.

Path with Art takes the excellent work of its social service partners a step further by embracing the concept that food and housing are not enough for adults to regain and maintain stability. Path with Art programs encourage social and emotional development, civic engagement, and the personal growth necessary to help participants to get on the path to a more stable life.

MISSION STATEMENT

Path with Art provides marginalized adults the opportunity to engage in the creative process as a unique means to improve and rebuild their lives.

CORE VALUES

Build community
Break down barriers/increase access
Harness the power of the creative process
Encourage and value all voices
Foster trust and respect

In Path with Art classes, I learned how to go beyond the obvious, to reach deep into the longing of my soul to express my secret desires and thoughts.

-- Nan, Student Artist