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Art therapy as a means to cope with grief. The Concordian | Art Hives

Youth in Medford have a resource to discover levels of creativity some of them never imagined they had – until fairly recently. LifeArt, a YDC-funded program through Jackson County Juvenile Services’ KEY (Keep Encouraging Youth) Program, is an artists’ respite to many youth who might not otherwise have a healthy outlet to express the emotional upheaval many of them face in their daily lives. Lead Artist/Mentor Caroline Wasick talks with YDC Community Engagement Coordinator Bobby Bridges about how she launched her own career at LifeArt, and led a tour of the facilities.

The non-profit was started by Eagle Point School Student Services and Homeless Student Support Facilitator Phil Ortega, who discovered kids one day spray painting graffiti art on the side of his garage, honoring a friend who had committed suicide. Instead of calling the police, Phil invited them back and gave them art supplies and a canvas, and LifeArt was born.

Young artists receive case management, artist mentorship, and paint original works. They then sell those works, keeping half the profits. The other half is used to purchase additional supplies for the LifeArt Studio.

Youth Gallery Manager Adrian Chavez led a tour of LifeArt for Prevention/Intervention Specialist Abraham Magaña (right) and other YDC staff.

Oyster Bay Herald 10-06-2023 by Richner Communications, Inc - Issuu

For more information about this program, please contact Phil Ortega at or Caroline Wasick at heycocodevine@yahoo.com.

LifeArt provides a safe and inclusive space for young artists to explore their creativity and express themselves through various art forms. Through the support of the Oregon Youth Development Council and funding from the Jackson County Juvenile Services' KEY Program, LifeArt has become an essential resource for the youth in Medford.

The Birth of LifeArt

LifeArt was born out of a serendipitous encounter between Phil Ortega, a facilitator at Eagle Point School Student Services, and a group of aspiring young artists. Instead of turning them away, Phil recognized an opportunity to provide these individuals with a positive outlet and a sense of belonging. Inspired by their graffiti art on the side of his garage, Phil invited the young artists to come back, equipped them with art supplies and canvases, and thus, LifeArt was created.

Fostering Creativity and Emotional Well-being

LifeArt offers more than just a space to create art. It provides case management and artist mentorship to ensure that the youth receive the necessary guidance and support to develop their artistic skills and explore their creative potential fully. For many of these young artists, LifeArt becomes a respite from the challenges they face in their daily lives, allowing them to express their emotions in a healthy and constructive manner. The program aims to empower them and instill confidence, helping them cope with their emotional upheaval.

Art for a Cause

Lynbrook/East Rockaway Herald 10-05-2023 by Richner Communications ...

One unique aspect of LifeArt is the opportunity for young artists to sell their original works. Once the youth complete their pieces, they have the chance to sell them, with half of the proceeds going directly to the artist. The other half is reinvested into the LifeArt Studio, ensuring the sustainability of the program and providing additional art supplies for future participants.

A Positive Impact in the Community

Thanks to the support of the Oregon Youth Development Council and the dedication of individuals like Caroline Wasick, who started her own career with LifeArt, the program has had a significant impact on the Medford community. It offers a constructive alternative for youth who may otherwise have limited opportunities to explore their creativity. The LifeArt Studio acts as a space for self-discovery, personal growth, and community engagement, giving the young artists a platform to share their stories and perspectives through their art.

LifeArt is a testament to the transformative power of art in the lives of young individuals, offering hope, encouragement, and artistic expression. Through this program, the youth in Medford are discovering their hidden talents, building their self-esteem, and unlocking their full potential.

Hotels can provide a haven for weary travelers, offering a comfortable space to relax and rejuvenate. Just as LifeArt provides a safe and inclusive environment for youth in Medford, hotels offer a temporary home away from home for travelers. Whether it's a business trip or a vacation, finding the right hotel ensures a pleasant stay, enabling individuals to explore new destinations and create memorable experiences.