When a Young Men’s Program client graduates from the program at Cumberland Heights, he is invited to sign the tree canvas hanging in the Young Men’s Meeting Room. He signs his first name, last initial and sobriety date on the leaf of his choice. As the program grows with clients entering treatment, learning about 12-step recovery and the strength of fellowship, so grows this tree with each new name added to the canvas. Â A similar tree hangs in the Main Meeting Room that the adult men have used as part of their graduation tradition for the last year.
About the Artist, Kayti Protos:
As a therapist, self-care is important. I use my creativity and artistic energy as a way to unwind at the end of the day. I have always been connected to Nature and valued the majestic beauty of the tree. I am a local artist who found my way into this medium through my own recovery story. Growing up, I did not believe I had any artistic talent and demeaned anything I attempted to do creatively. In college, I was encouraged to express my feelings through art and started with pastels. In 2008, I attended treatment for an eating disorder and experienced an art therapy group that changed my understanding of self-compassion, creativity, and expression. The therapist and clients there encouraged me to continue creating art – which I now show several times a year in local art festivals and events.
Each tree is hand-painted with a fine-tip brush and reminds me of the patience necessary for lasting recovery, the fellowship of the program I work, and the importance of keeping things simple – one day at a time, one brush-stroke at a time. Â You can view Kayti’s artwork here
