The walls at Calder Centre are more colourful these days, thanks to some help from the Saskatoon Community Youth Arts Program (SCYAP).
The idea to install painted wall murals at Calder Center came from recreation therapist Shemara Schergevitch.
The murals themselves were designed by Jordan Schwab and his crew from SCYAP. Schwab drew inspiration from the client-made quilts that had been hanging on the walls previously, then he and between 12 and 15 SCYAP artists completed the project.
"Our hope is that the artwork benefits both our clients and staff," explains Jon Bennett, Youth Programs Manager at Calder Centre. "Clients at Calder Centre are in recovery from addiction. During this challenging process, we want clients to draw upon strengths to inspire them to make positive changes in their lives. In a holistic care model, we recognize that clients can draw upon various strengths, and artwork may be an inspiration for clients in their journey of recovery."
The individuals who were part of this project did an outstanding job, the staff at Calder Centre feels. SCYAP has also partnered with Calder Centre recreation therapists for many years, hosting art workshops and activities for clients at their downtown space.
"We are grateful for the partnership between our organizations," says Bennett.