Austin, Texas is a hub of creativity. The capital city of the Lone Star State, Austin is home to countless artists. Strictly speaking, though, some of the city’s finest artmakers don’t actually have homes to call their own. Enter Art From the Streets.
Art From the Streets uses art for change in the local community. Art From the Streets (AFTS) is a non-profit organization that provides assistance to local artists experiencing homelessness. The Austin organization offers transient artists support and a safe and nurturing environment where they can focus on art.
NOVEMBER IS HUNGER & HOMELESSNESS AWARENESS MONTH
It is fitting to bring greater awareness to the issues of hunger and homelessness during this time of year, as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, so Americans recognize the scarcity of food and housing that exists for so many in our communities. During this month, people address the issues of food and housing insecurity through education, service, and advocacy events because so many are unaware of just how much these problems really impact the people around them.
Experiencing art is vital for everyone; there is great value in it. With art therapy, Austin's own Art From The Streets makes available the experience of real life benefits to all, particularly the city's most marginalized residents. From painting in downtown Austin and through various hospitable resources and tools, AFTS art therapy sessions and open studios help serve as a form of self-care. Take your mind off of stressors in your life. Artistic expression and it's therapeutic effects often contributes to greater overall happiness and mental well-being. This is key, as stress is one of the world’s most ubiquitous negative health and wellness issues.
