More About the Painted Hand Program
Painted Hand is a project that provides both children and adults a private setting to use creative art for personal expression, exploration and painting important personal stories. It is not an “art class,” but rather an opportunity to use art materials freely and spontaneously.

This project has been running for over two years at Singing Frog, and is now also offered at Eagle’s Nest. At both locations parents, caregivers and children will be able to attend without having to worry about transportation or childcare. Private art sessions will be offered before, during or after school hours.

Individual Painted Hand meetings take place in a non-judgmental, supportive environment where privacy, safety and respect are vital. It is offered at no cost for the children parents or caregivers enrolled at Aboriginal Headstart Preschools. Paint, clay, paper and brushes are provided.

The sessions are led by Angelica Djamtorki or Marty Levenson, both registered art therapists. Their role is to actively support and witness this process, provide encouragement, and respectfully ask questions. In the Painted Hand program, art is not judged, interpreted or analyzed, but rather it raises curiosity and interest.

Children often use art to tell their stories or resolve a troubling conflict in a way that does not need explaining. Making visible their “monster" and getting help in fighting him, or in finding out what he wants, is a powerful expansion of a child's experience. Using the art to express anger or saddness, and seeing that the feeling is respected, sometimes provides great relief.

For adults it is often through paintings, and the conversations they encourage, that new insights and connections can happen. For both adults and children, using creativity can increase self esteem and renew inner strength. Please feel free to contact Vicky, Vanessa, Leona, Marty (604.736.1972) or Angellica (604.809.1325) with any questions.