Partners in Arts Participation

There were barriers for all concerned. The Paramount artists had not had experiences with Hands Across the World clientele or the cultures they represented. The language barrier was a concern for all. Hands Across the World clients had not had experience with the art forms or the traditions that the artists were prepared to share. Hands Across the World clients had come from severe camp settings, some for many years, and lacked the fine motor coordination needed to manipulate scissors, paint brushes, sewing materials, etc. Hands Across the World lacked funding to hire artists and provide supplies necessary to promote and offer such classes, nor did they have knowledge about the artists available and the studios to provide the experiences. Assessment came by virtue of contracting quality artists, securing attendees for the classes, and having product worthy of purchase and exhibition. 2: Hands Across the World and the Paramount facility are only two blocks away from each other, but through grant programs have just recently begun to work together. The longer we work together the more familiar we become with each other's infrastructures, strengths, challenges and opportunities. This knowledge will allow us to continue to deepen the relationship and continue to enrich the artistic life and expression for the Hands Across the World clients and for the community at large. So far, we have only begun to explore the way to help these clients heal through the power of the arts. We are eager to continue this relationship, knowing that it helps both agencies to truly fulfill their missions. Assessment came by virtue of the increased frequency with which our organization interact, via planning/reflection meeting, bringing clients to the Paramount informally for tours/exhibits, sharing information and opportunities, etc. We have become joined at the hip and are continually brainstorming.