Downtown Eastside art exhibit helps people find a way off the street

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VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – This weekend, the Union Gospel Mission is showing art done by those recovering from addiction on the street. The pieces are part of the organizations art recovery program.

Derek Weise with the UGM says a lot of the work comes out of a long, painful journey by people recovering from addiction, abuse and homelessness.

“The people in these programs are survivors and they have been through a lot but you know, for them to be able create something that shows the hope and beauty in their lives is really moving,” he explains. “They are often full of a lot of hope too. So when people in the Downtown Eastside make art it can be amazing art you know. The expression that comes from someone who has had a deep journey is a remarkable expression of art.”

The exhibit is part of the Eastside Culture Crawl and can be seen at their space on Heatley Avenue both days until 6pm.

The Exhibitors

  • Hope in Shadows – Pivot Legal Society

Hope in Shadows is a photography contest for low-income residents where disposable cameras are handed out to the community. Selected photos are printed in a book and calendar, showing the beauty in the neighborhood, and calendars are sold on the street by vendors, providing dignified income. This is the second year that Hope in Shadows is exhibiting in UGM’s gallery space.

  • The Window – PHS

The Window is a non-profit social enterprise showcasing art created and sold on the DTES. The Window sells thousands of hand-crafted items each year and involves more than 150 local artists.

  • Art from the Heart – UGM Women’s Programs

Art from the Heart is a program initiated and supported by international artist Pamela Masik, where art therapists help women voice their feelings through art and work through them in a constructive way.

  • Photo 101 – UGM Photography Program

Photo 101 is a program taught by esteemed photographers Kevin Clark and Leah Gregg. Available to UGM program participants, the course teaches photo composition and artistic vision, as well as historic themes in photography, as students explore their neighbourhood through the lens of a Holga camera.

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