Arts Studios Vancouver Helps Mental Illness
A nationally-recognized arts recovery program that’s been in operation for 21 years is the latest casualty in the Vancouver Coast Health Authority’s deep cuts to mental health programs. Among the funding cuts are treatments for mood disorders, schizophrenia, and the complete closure of the Arts Studio recovery program in 60 days. Critics are saying the cuts hurt even more due to the announcement coming days after Victoria raised salaries for senior government staff. About 600 people participate in the programs offered at The Art Studios every year, taking a variety of classes that combine artwork with therapy, counselling and skill building.
The studio, at East 44th Avenue and Victoria Drive, is slated to be closed in August after Vancouver Coastal Health announced cuts to mental health programs in June. Julie Kerr, who has bipolar disorder, has been taking classes at The Art Studios for two years.
“It’s not just an art class, it’s a community, it’s a safe haven, it’s a place where people can express themselves,” she said at a rally organized by the studio.
On Friday, Vancouver Councillor Kerry Jang attended the rally and said he is hoping to find municipal funding to keep The Art Studios open.
“Arts program like this are absolutely essential to make sure people stay well,” he said.
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Vancouver Filmmaker Graduated From Vancouver Film School
Wayne Lam Visual Artist combining his creative skills and the love of being with people to create one of the kind ‘Art of Storytelling’ He also created a Short Film ‘Color Of Lovers.
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