Transformation
by Annie Aiken, M.Ed.
Allow me to begin this entry with a brief introduction. My name is Annie Aiken and I have a diverse background working with individuals and communities coping with violence and persistent poverty in Savannah, Georgia. I began my ArtReach journey four years ago following a suggestion from my father, a Gulf War Veteran, who had become interested in ArtReach: Project America. With a life- long passion for the creative arts and personal interest in the effects of trauma, I enthusiastically signed up for a one-day introductory workshop in Atlanta, Georgia. I was eager to learn about new and innovative ways to help my students and clients deal with the consistent stress surrounding them in their environment and personal lives. During my graduate studies, I wrote several research papers about the documented benefits of expressive art therapy modalities and how one might apply some of the techniques to help students overcome barriers in both formal and informal learning environments. I was excited for the opportunity to get some “hands on” experience and delve deeper into a subject that I had read so much about, but never experienced firsthand. Little did I know just how deep I would end up diving, and how this first experience with the ArtReach model would transform me and my approach to education and leadership.
I am currently participating in the “Train-the Trainers” program and hope to help facilitate ArtReach workshops in Savannah and beyond. I will be sharing my reflections throughout this journey with the hope that others will discover the magic of ArtReach and experience healing and transformation for themselves.
