Art Expression, Inc.

I have been working with Art Expression since the summer of 2024 and I have loved every second of it! The children love it. Art Expression makes the arts more accessible and there are clear benefits. They learn essential life skills with the help of art.

I have been involved with Art Expression, Inc. since it's inception. Art Expression was created to care for children and to let them develop in a safe and creative atmosphere through art and music. Caring for these children is not just a goal, but a sincere passion. Art Expression continues to find ways to reach out to children whether by classroom programs or even via internet sessions. A wonderful organization with dedicated people.

The professionalism and expertise of the staff and founder of this organization is unmatched. Art has such an amazing way of healing, calming and sparking the soul. Art Expressions is a wonderful facilitator of the journey. Highly recommend

I have worked as a facilitator with Art Expression since 2018. The programming is insightful and amazing. They have created such a variety of programs to cultivate artistic, self-expression in both children and their families. I love how facilitators are given the freedom to put their own spin on given topics and also explore their own ways of fostering and promoting self-esteem, reflection, and artistic expression within the workshops. The children and families not only leave with amazing art but creative tools to help them navigate everyday emotions. Art Expression definitely places the needs of the population it services first and is truly an amazing nonprofit!!

Art Expression, Inc. is an exceptional organization that has provided thousands of participants an opportunity to express themselves through music and art. Since 2001, Art Expression has dramaticaly grown and year each provides exceptionally creative programming to all who participate.

I was fortunate to help the Lowden’s launch Art Expression over a decade ago. We started in one school district and since inception the nonprofit has grown and expanded. The goals and philosophy have not changed; helping children improve social and emotional skills through art. The program, its founders, board members and the art therapists are exceptional in their work and mission. The thousands of children who have been involved are testament to its value.

This is such a great local non profit! I would use it time and time again!!!

This is such a great non profit! I would highly recommend!

This is such a great local non profit! I would highly recommend!

I’ve been working with Art Expressions for 10+ years now, and hope to continue for years to come. Fabulous mission, amazing humans. I’ve had the honor to watch art unite individuals, instill confidence, create community, and provide a safe space. Top notch, in my book!

Art Expressions is an amazing organization. They have helped and continue to help children from all backgrounds. Art therapy is something that all children can benefit from. May they continue with their mission for many years to come.

I’ve seen the incredible work of Art Expression and can’t say enough positive words. Highly Recommend!

I am proud to support Art Expression, Inc. in their ongoing mission to nurture children's social skills through art. Art Expression, Inc. recognizes the unique power of creative expression as a tool for personal development and emotional healing. In light of the turmoil children face in today’s world, this program is a beacon of hope and support.

By integrating art therapy techniques, Art Expression, Inc. provides children with a safe and constructive outlet to express their emotions, enhance their self-esteem, and build essential social skills. The program's inclusive approach ensures that every child, regardless of their background or economic status, can participate and benefit from these invaluable resources.

One of the most commendable aspects of Art Expression, Inc. is its commitment to offering these services free of cost to schools in Southwestern Pennsylvania. This ensures that schools, particularly those in underserved communities, can access and implement the program without financial barriers. By doing so, Art Expression, Inc. is making a significant impact on the well-being and future success of countless children.

I wholeheartedly support Art Expression, Inc. and their dedication to fostering a positive and nurturing environment for our youth. Their work is not only vital but also incredibly inspiring, and I am honored to contribute to their cause.

Fantastic nonprofit. This organization has helped and continues to benefit children in school districts, and homeless shelters in the Pittsburgh area.

Art Expression, Inc., continues to provide social and emotional learning opportunities to individuals in schools, community centers, libraries, and shelters. This is a quality organization providing opportunities for participants to develop and refine 21st Century learning skills such as the ability to interact successfully with a diverse population, a requisite skill for success in both employment and life. I have served as a Board member for over 15 years and have seen the successful growth of Art Expression under the direction of its CEO/ PresidentAngela Lowden.

I have been following the success of Art Expression since its inception, and it has helped hundreds of children since that time, encouraging them to express themselves artistically and musically, in a safe supportive environment, while developing self-worth and positive relations with others. The group dynamic allows the children to see each other as valued and enables them to take their enriched self-worth into the community at large. The foundation has fostered success across many types of venues, for all ages for many years.

This is a great non profit. They are doing great things to teach children in different ways.

Art Expression, Inc is an amazing organization supporting local students who are in need of enhanced social and emotional skills. Angela and her team provide a valuable resource for children in a safe, non-judgmental space.

I try to support nonprofits that help children & youth express themselves through art. And I'm proud to offer support to Art Expression. They offer a fun, creative means for kids to express their emotions and use their voices when, so often, many children don't believe they are listened to. I wish a program like this existed when I was a young artist.

I’ve had the privilege of working for Art Expression since 2018. I enjoy facilitating creative and interactive workshops with the various populations of children and families throughout Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas. I love when parents are able to join in the art-making process as well as when children and adults share their knowledge, insight, and epiphanies about the subject or media. In those moments, we all learn and grow together. Art Expression, its leaders and facilitators, are a valuable asset to the community.

A phenomenal foundation, that continues to provide endless benefits to the community it serves.
Highly recommend!

I have been associated with Art Expression, Inc. since it's inception. I have been on the Board of Directors for many years and I have never worked with a group of professionals, either therapists or Board members, more dedicated to helping children learn and grow as individuals. This being done in a secure and nurturing environment. With the world in it's current state, I think it is vitally important to give these children a chance to develop their own personalities and a sense of self. Art Expression allows a child to be a child and interact with other children without fear of judgment or ridicule.

Art Expression is a great program that provides opportunities for students to improve their emotional well being through art outside of the regular school day. There are a variety of themes for kids to explore with qualified instructors and high quality materials. They create a sense of community and connection between students from different backgrounds and ability levels. Their summer programs are a great resource for kids to learn and grow while they are away from school. I would recommend Art Expression to anyone!

Art Expressions is a wonderful, generous nonprofit committed to bring inclusion, joy, self-esteem, and empowerment to the youth of Pittsburgh. Most notably, working with the Homeless Children’s Education Foundation to bring art groups to the city’s shelters. These workshops bring children of all backgrounds together and unite them in the joys of art making. Art Expressions has a deep commitment to showing all children their own worth. Easily 5 stars or more.

I had the most incredible experience working the summer program with Art Expressions! What a breath of fresh air to spread the beauty of Music and Art to these more than receptive students! Thank you so much for promoting the arts which add the colorful spectrum to the world! Music and Art are crucial to the composition of an entire culture! Keep up the great work!

Art Expression has done a great job in working with women and their children in homeless and domestic violence shelters. Art therapy is a wonderful way to help traumatized families find healing.

Fantastic organization having a profound impact on its community. Cannot say enough good things about what art expression does for children in schools who do not have the resources to provide them with exposure to the arts.

Incredibly proud to team with this organization. As a music therapist that has been working with children for over 10 years, I would highly recommend creative expressions. Thank you for what you have done for the music therapy field.

I have been involved with Art Expression, Inc. for many years. The work done by the Art Facilitators to help local students, shelters and community organizations is remarkable. Art Expression, Inc. is a Pittsburgh gem!

Art Expression is truly an incredible organization that has such a positive influence on the individuals they work with. This organization takes their mission seriously and for that reason they are able to bring art into the lives of many individuals from all walks of life. Angela and her teams dedication never ceases to amaze me.

The program was wonderful. The teachers professional and engaging. Well planed and organized. The students loved it!

In my experience, Art Expression, Inc. is the best after-school and community program in the Pittsburgh area. The staff is passionate about serving the community and children to support their emotional needs.

Art Expression, Inc. continues to adapt to the needs of schools, shelters, and community partners. Summer Camps kicked off a return to in-person art-making and impactful discussions for youth. We heard firsthand how the pandemic times were influencing them, and everyone around them. The children were excited to make all kinds of projects, and they loved getting to collaborate on some fantastic group dialogue and creative writing activities.
Our art and music facilitators went over and above to deliver programs. Graduate Art therapy students were ushered in, and those of us staying at home guided them through the ups and downs of the unknowns in co-facilitating with teachers who did not get to be in person with their students for most of the year. It was a summer like never before! Thankfully, everyone remained safe, and had a fun dose of summer learning before going back to school, whether that meant another hybrid year or in-person. American Rescue Plan funding will make it easier than ever for Art Expression to deliver its award-winning programs to schools, free of charge to participants. But we need your help in calling attention! If you’re a parent or teacher, now is the time to tell your Pennsylvania district “we want Art Expression” and reach out to Angela Lowden, Founder and President of Art Expression, Inc.

Art Expression Inc. has a small yet powerful team that delivers everything it can to the best of its ability. The founder and administrators work hard to get funding and provide everything, from strong curriculums to individualized art kits! Their organization and communication is always timely and I've learned a lot from them. Very grateful for their support, as their much-needed therapeutic education minimized Covid-related stressors for educators and participants alike.

I have been a member of the board of Art Expression from the date of its inception and I am proud of the wonderful work that Art Expression has and continues to provide to countless children. Even with the current unprecedented social and economic constraints which have limited the ability of Art Expression to provide face to face programming, Art Expression has utilized its resources to help children through video technology. Art Expression will continue to adapt to any challenges to provide children with quality programming.

Art Expression is a fantastic organization offering first-class programming to their community. The organization has adapted to virtual programming in 2020 during a time where participants need their services more than ever.

I am a licensed creative arts therapist and licensed professional counselor in PA and have been working for Art Expressions for several years as an art facilitator. They offer great programming to shelters, community centers, and schools. They are continually expanding their vision of how and who they can help, and it has been a great pleasure to work for this company and grow with it.

I collaborated with Arts Expression on a project for Pittsburgh Public Schools. They are passionate about helping those they serve and provide the absolute highest level of services. I would recommend them to anyone looking for grant funded Art and Music Therapy!

I formerly worked with disabled and disadvantaged children and cannot emphasize how effective and powerful pairing art and music with therapeutic programs can be for everyone - especially children struggling with grief, trauma, and mental health issues. Art Expression’s programming has improved the lives of youth and families all over western Pennsylvania and it’s accomplishments should serve as an example for all schools, shelters and children’s programs looking to provide support to at risk youth.

A general story is that the kids were just so proud to be able to make their own puppets...it's one thing to create puppets from paper bags, but Cheryl really went out of the way to get some amazing supplies so their puppets could look quite fantastic. The kids were so proud of them about could not wait to show their moms. :)

I have been part of Art Expression, Inc. for many years on and off. As someone who has been involved with the administrative side of the organization I see a variety of success stories from the students who have participated in the program. From school students, to homeless poplulations and beyond Art Expression impacts the lives of everyone involved.

I have been involved with this program for many years. The program continues to grow and become something truly unique in school based programming, homeless shelters, and community based interests. It helps many children, adults, families, and schools with its varied programs. At its core it is about making those feeling excluded included through art. It teaches individuals to value differences in others and acceptance of those differences. Art Expression Incorporated continues to be an important partner in the community offering a unique and valuable experience.

I have been working for Art Expression, Inc. since I graduated in 2011 as an Art Facilitator. Angela and her team continue to amaze me year after year of how they keep the organization thriving and relevant to the needs of the community. I have always enjoyed working in the school and shelter setting but I am extremely excited about our most recently pilot program Parenting from the HeART. During the program I met some incredible young adults who were open and eager for the support and resources Art Expression, Inc. had to offer. This summer I also ran a successful summer art program to help students transition into junior high. The students and their parents were grateful to have a week long program to help them reduce anxiety and gain confidence for the transition. The school hopes to continue the summer program every year. I have loved all of my opportunities to work with Art Expression, Inc. and I plan to be with them for many years to come!

Last semester, I was excited to run an Art Expression after school program in a local middle school. On the first day of the work shop, I arrived in the art room early to set up the materials we would be using. At that time, a student approached me with some devastating news. She told me that a fellow student had committed suicide 2 weeks ago.
As parents and teachers, we all insulate ourselves against the pain that this kind of news brings. We imagine that no one we know could possibly feel badly enough to end his or her life. Yet, there I was, comforting this girl who had to come to terms with the suicide of a fellow class mate, a class mate not unlike her.
As sad as this was, I think that it really made me value the Art Expression Program even more than usual. I looked at these beautiful students with a different sort of awareness, thinking that it was possible for any one of them to feel suicidal. I wanted to shield them and let them realize their own worth.
Art Expression is the perfect program to accomplish these goals. In Art Expression, students get to express themselves with art media and then talk to each other and three caring adults,
Sadly, this is an experience that many kids don't get anywhere else. In Art Expression, students feel heard and supported. They are no longer alone. As one student put it: "Talking about my problems is a way to tame them."

I am an Art Therapist and Art Facilitator with Art Expressions, Inc. I have worked with this nonprofit for the past 4 years--conducting visual art workshops with a variety of Pittsburgh organizations. What makes Art Expression Inc. so special is that it provides opportunities for youth in our community to experience art making in a meaningful and personally significant way. With trained art therapists as art facilitators, the workshop holds a therapeutic space for self-reflection and building self-awareness and self-esteem in the context of a group setting. Individuals come together to create and to focus on art themes that have a ripple effect and connect individuals with others and more deeply, with themselves.

One of my favorite things about “Art Expressions Inc.” is this sense of acceptance that naturally seems to be found in our groups. It has been a joy to quietly witness kids reach beyond their own usual circle of friends and somehow connect with someone they might never do so during the regular school day. I am not quite sure what allows this sense of community to grow in our art spaces. Perhaps it is giving the children a voice in helping creating the group rules and the culture? Giving them choices and challenges instead of expected outcomes? Listening to them instead of lecturing them? Stripping away other judgments like grades or labeling them by ability or attitude? Most likely a mix of many things but I do think the “art part” allows them to see a deeper portraits of their peers than the “need to be cool and fit in” one they wear all day. Such allows them to see there is a beauty in being exactly who they are. That beauty first surfaces in the extraordinary unique variety of individual creative expressions but later comes to life in how they engage with each other.

Art Expression, Inc. provided me with experience that has landed me in an outstanding master's program. Working with this nonprofit taught me so much about facilitating workshops that give children skills they can use daily, and the importance of after-school programs!

I have the privilege of working as an art facilitator for Art Expression! I absolutely love being able to connect with children and their families through art making. Many of the workshops I’ve done have focused on Mindfulness and incorporated music, coloring, painting, and sensory activities. The children were very responsive to the activities and enjoyed exploring different media and materials. Working with Art Expression has given me an opportunity not only use my skills and creativity to help and connect with others but also the chance to further cultivate the use of art as a therapeutic means of self-expression and communication.

I have been working at Auberle's 412 Youth Zone with young adults who are aging out of foster care and are striving to make their lives better. They look forward to Art Expression workshops. Their facilitators get them to open up, express their fears and positives too. Some have a great passion for art and always walk away with pride and a new technique. What surprises me more is those who say "I'm no good at art" and walk away just as pleased, head held high, feeling uplifted that they accomplished something difficult. It's more than an art class - it's a different way of thinking about how to express yourself.

I became aware of Art Expression, Inc. back in March. I have not lived in Western PA very long, having moved from Arkansas just a year prior to finding Art Expression. I was floored by the amount of incredible work Art Expression is doing for school children in the Greater Pittsburgh area. Then when I heard about the programs they do in the homeless shelters for children and parents, I knew I had to work with them in some way. Since discovering Art Expression, I have facilitated classes in both the shelters and in the schools. As an art therapist, I feel I have come home. The work Art Expression does is not being done by anyone else and the kids who participate flourish in the programs provided by this fabulous organization. I have heard children speak about being separated from their brothers and sisters by foster care, and I have seen that same child create art to honor the family members she hasn’t seen in a long time. I have been fortunate enough to have children feel safe enough in our classroom to be honest, open, and then receive support from their peers as a result. The art allows those without a voice to be heard, and it allows for connections to be formed with the people the artwork touches. Thank you Art Expression, Inc for giving a voice to those who often don’t have one. And thank you to every business, foundation, and individual who helps fund these wonderful programs.

My son was incredibly motivated by art for the majority of his middle and high school years. Art expression was a passion of his from painting, drawing, writing, video, dance or music, he had a great passion for all. When my son passed away right before entering college, I had a strong desire to start a memorial foundation in his name to not only celebrate his life and carry on his name, but to assist others with finding their true passion in life. I had searched for a couple of years through many different non-profits and academic programs seeking just the right fit for my son's passion. One day I stumbled upon Art Expressions, Inc. and immediately feel in love with their story and mission. Angela and Art Expressions, Inc. were a true blessing to work with and through our collaboration, we were able to offer two programs in a school district that could benefit tremendously. The programs success made my heart full and grateful to have found such a wonderful organization.

As a Child Development/Education Specialist, I have had the privilege to work with Art Expression for several years. They have done amazing work with our children. They have promoted positive self esteem, non-bullying, creativity, care and compassion for others just to name a few. The children are always so excited when they hear that Ms Jess is coming. She is so caring, accepting, and encouraging. The founder of Art Expression is also an amazing person. Art expression serves a diverse population of people. There is no discrimination nor bias. They treat everyone equally and provide individualized services based on each persons needs. I highly recommend Art Expressions for this award. They are truly deserving.

I am a Music Facilitator for Art Expression and have had the opportunity to see firsthand the amazing impact music and art can have on children and youth. It's wonderful to see the insight the students gain about themselves by reflecting on their art and the imagination and creativity they bring to the table. I support all this organization does to alleviate social inequalities among children and to reach even more youth in the area through the use of art and music

Art Expression offers more than just art instruction to the youth we serve, but the opportunity to find a voice, to express individuality, and create in a safe space that fosters growth. It is always a pleasure to see the new art being created in their programming, and the interest generated when participants realize that they are indeed artists and capable of creating beautiful works of art.

I participated in Art Expression sessions as a student throughout elementary and middle school. I benefited so much from the program that during high school, I wanted to give back and served as a volunteer during the after-school sessions. Now, I am a college student and Secondary Education English major, and I continue to advocate for the Art Expression organization. I am so grateful for the impact that it had on my life in shaping who I am today. I would recommend the program to any child, family, school, organization, or community. I have so many incredible memories from Art Expression sessions through my childhood. Here are just a few I would like to share:

I remember being paired with two older girls for a group project once. We were given a large sheet of paper to do with what we choose. We decided to use paint to make it look like the interior of a cave and add cave drawings. I recall being anxious at first, working with students who were from the grade above I had never met. As we worked together, I raised my voice little by little to share my ideas. I felt so proud as I dipped my hand in paint and added my hand prints to our work.

I also still remember the colors of my inside-outside box project. The inside was green, and the outside was pink. In my Art Expression journal, I had written that I often wore pink, but that I thought green represented me because it is a color of action. When we shared our boxes at the end of six weeks, all students were celebrated for who they were and what they shared about themselves. At an early age, I was beginning to accept my strengths and weaknesses, successes and failures through this project.

During one of the sessions I participated in, I remember the art therapist bringing a “talking stick” to allow each student to share his or her ideas for projects at the beginning of the session and share his or her work at the end. Some of the elementary school students, myself included, were so anxious to proudly present their work at the end of sessions that we would literally be bouncing on our chairs awaiting our turns. Looking back, though, I realize that the time for everyone to take turns to reflect helped me to develop my own acceptance towards all ideas--especially those different from my own.

I recall other students and me sharing stories from their lives-- from the day at school or time spent at home-- and describing how our artwork represents these stories. Moments like these made me more comfortable reflecting on my life experiences, sharing with others, and accepting myself and others.

Art Expression brings such a diverse group of students. Some students come to sessions because they love art and want to create. Others are hoping to make new friends. Many just want a safe space to be themselves. I have several hilarious memories of kids goofing around and telling jokes in the art room in elementary school. For example, one day, I remember we were clipping images from magazines for our inside/outside boxes. Several kids I had never met and I were cracking up over a magazine advertisement for cat litter. It’s such a little thing, but it meant a lot to me to have so much fun with new faces I had never met before as we created art. Meeting new people with diverse backgrounds and personalities began to open me up to the incredible variety of people in the world.

I had the privilege of completing my internship and even gaining extra experience after graduation with Art Expression Inc. Working at Art Expression gave me the chance to see how a non-profit is run, and I can confidently say it is no small task. What Art Expression brings to the schools of Pittsburgh, and to the community is astounding. From the president and founder, Angela, to the small administration team, to the art facilitators, and interns, each member of Art Expression brings so much to the table. Without this team working nearly flawlessly together, a lot of Pittsburgh's youth would be missing out on enriching after-school programs. I wish Art Expression was available to youth everywhere!

Art Expression, Inc. does exceptional work engaging children and youth through art to increase their social skills, self awareness and respect for others. The organization is to be commended for its role in reaching out to those communities where children and youth may be dislocated, disenfranchised and/or left behind due to unfortunate circumstances like homelessness. Art Expression, Inc. lets kids know they matter and gives them expression through their artwork to be seen and heard. Thank you, Art Expression!

I served on the Art Expression Board for many years. The services offered are exceptional and I have personally seen the positive results of the work with students who are in the program.

The program is delivered by certified art therapists and the cognitive and social benefits that accrue to the students in this program are exceptional.

I am proud to be a Board Member of Art Expression, Inc. It is truly a wonderful organization that works hard to provide children with excellent opportunities to socialize with their peers using the arts as a catalyst. The therapist are top notch in working the children. Everyone works hard to ensure that children receive excellent services.

I became familiar with Art Expression at least four years ago and worked with Angela to learn about after-school programs and offer them in the district where I served as superintendent. Art Expression provides opportunities for children of all ages and abilities through an interdisciplinary, engaging approach that is customized for each learner. One program was piloted initially at the upper elementary level successfully. And because of the partnership with students, staff and parents that developed quickly, there was a strong desire from many to grow the program, which eventually became an option throughout the K-12 system. Art Expression provides high-quality programming that demonstrates extraordinary planning and extraordinary results.

For a second year, our out-of-school program chose Art Expression, Inc. for arts activities for the Summer Enrichment Series. For six consecutive Thursdays, our students, ages 7-17, enjoyed journaling, exploring their emotions and expressing themselves in a unique project. It was great fun to see the end results of the creative processes. As an administrator, I have to add that Angela and all of her instructors are professionals and a pleasure to work with.

Art Expression is truly an incredible organization that has such a positive influence on the children they work with. I have been able to be a part of their after-school program and the best part is witnessing the creativity and watching the students get excited about their art. I have seen students who, at first, seem uninterested then get involved with the art and all of a sudden, they open up with so much to say! It is really wonderful to experience that and is just one of the reasons Art Expression Inc. deserves a top rating in every way.

Art Expression provides high quality and engaging programming. Happy to have worked with this organization for several years.

We had the wonderful opportunity to have Art Expression, Inc. facilitate and inspire our Middle School students with a piece that will become part of a larger project in the years to come. We are so grateful for their influence on our students and teachers. It was and still is a treasured experience. We look forward to continued cooperation with Art Expression, Inc.

Our school district shared a relationship with Art Expression, Inc. over multiple years. What a clever design to a badly needed service. Therapeutic art. It levels the playing field for students who are struggling with emotional needs. In a very non threatening environment students are given coping tools for problem solving. Our students really enjoyed this program. The staff from Art Expression is professional and flexible to meet the needs of the population they serve. They get a thumbs up from this administrator.

The children enjoy making the art. Not only was they making art they was also learning at the same time. which made it fun and educational for the children. The instructor work very good with the children. I recommend this program for all children.

It was truly wonderful working with Art Expression in our district's after school program. Inspiring middle school students, particularly boys, to engage in art and open creative space had been an ongoing struggle for several years, but our Art Expression instructors were very innovative in their approach to working with our students. Instead of entering the program with a firm or canned curriculum, the instructors captured the ideas, interests, and needs of our students as a means to determine which materials and projects to engage. For example, we had a lot of boys who did not want to paint, but really enjoyed working with their hands designing clay models and miniature worlds. They then combined all of their creations to make stop animation projects. In another case, many of our students, both boys and girls were dealing with the death of a fellow student due to neighborhood violence. The instructors were able to help our students creatively and therapeutically express themselves through art in a way that was respectful, tactful, and productive.

Art Expressions has been coming to our facility for a couple years now and we could not be happier! Our agency works with mothers and children experiencing domestic violence and starting anew free of abuse. Our families love the projects Art Expressions brings in and the opportunity it gives for mother/child bonding. They look forward to Art Expression groups and the therapeutic escape it provides. We have had nothing but positive experiences with this agency and highly recommend their services. All of the people are wonderful to work with and strive to make the experiences engaging and memorable for our families. Art Expressions would be a positive program for any school or agency.

Art Expressions is a remarkable approach to teaching real-world concepts with art as the vehicle. The program serves children and young people by creating an atmosphere that promotes healthy learning and social relationships. Art Expressions is a wonderful opportunity for students to not only create something, but learn how to reflect and communicate their unique ideas and thought patterns. The Art Expressions faculty are well-organized, prepared, and devoted to fostering high-thinking learners and future contributors of society. I would strongly recommend the program and hope to have Art Expressions return to my district for years to come!

During elementary and middle school, I was a student in the Art Expression program. Now, as a senior in high school, I have volunteered with the program for several years. Art Expression has helped me become who I am today.

In elementary school, Art Expression boosted my self-esteem and confidence. Each session provides a "safe space" for students to feel free to speak openly, express themselves, and be accepted. As a student in the program, I looked forward to every session and can even still remember specific projects I created as far back as first grade--a colorful scarf, massive painting of a cave, and decorated box, to name a few.

In middle school, Art Expression sessions additionally gave me the opportunity to develop my communication skills as my fellow students and I collaborated and bonded over our love of creating art.

Art Expression is a unique and impactful organization that I know can benefit any school and any child. I look forward to seeing the organization continue to grow and touch more children in the future.

Art Expression has demonstrated kindness, creativity, and engagement with the at risk youth they serve during the Service Access for Youth program. Each session is tailored to the youth as artists, empowering them to explore their artistic process and express themselves in a tangible way. Art Expression provides a safe space where the youth not only have access to materials and new techniques, but they facilitate meaningful discussions. I can not say how grateful I am to have Art Expression (specifically Jen and Julie) participate in the SAY collaboration.

Glenn Smartschan

I have been involved with Art Expression since its inception. First, as Superintendent of Schools in Mt. Lebanon, when Art Expression opened its first after school class in Mt. Lebanon schools, and now as a board member.

Art Expression has helped hundreds of students find a voice and an identity through the arts. As a result of the program I have witnessed students dramatically improve their interpersonal relationships with their peers and use the Art Expression experience to enhance academic performance.

I am proud to be a member of the Board and to be a part of a program which has changed the lives of many students.

My daughter was only a couple of years into elementary school when she began taking after-school classes through the Art Expression program. Her self-confidence and creativity grew as she continued through the program over the years. I would encourage any parent to give their child the gift of Art Expression.

I began the Art Expression program in the Mt. Lebanon School District when I was just in first grade. From the start, I looked forward to each session, wondering what sort of project we would be working on. Even though I did not know many of the other students in the program going in, I was glad to be with each one of them by the end of six weeks. Everyone was very positive and friendly--even the fifth-graders complimented my clay dog! I loved the program so much that I continued throughout elementary school and middle school!
I found pleasure in the freedom that came with the middle-school program format. I could harness all of my energy into multiple projects--working on a plaster mask, watercolor painting, and a card for a friend all in the same session! I was never the “Picasso” or “Rembrandt” of the group during my sessions, but I still took pride in the work I created. All students--artistic or not--were fueled by the positivity and encouragement in the room.
Throughout elementary and middle school, the program boosted my self-esteem and confidence. By the time eighth-grade was wrapping up, I believed I had grown into a more certain leader. Inside and outside the art room, I felt as though I did not need others’ approval and was more comfortable with myself.
Now, I help out as a volunteer for the program. My experience with Art Expression has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my life. I am very grateful to this exceptional organization and would encourage parents and schools to get their kids involved and support this program in any way possible.

I am a facilitator with the Art Expression program at 2 different elementary schools in Mt. Lebanon.
The students are so accepting of each other and appreciative of the art work that this fully inclusive program is a joy to assist with.

It is rare in one’s life to find something that one can be an advocate for and I consider myself fortunate to have found Art Expression Incorporated. This organization is a unique program that utilizes my personal passions of art therapy, helping children, and volunteering for a wonderful cause. Being a board member since its nonprofit inception has been one of the best experiences of my life. I consider myself lucky to be a part of a team of like minded individuals, whose ultimate goal is to help others. The positive results of the program are seen in participant’s behaviors, attitudes, and personal stories. I have seen the program grow and change over the last few years to help not only those in schools but also within the military, homeless shelters, and within various community based programs. Even with its expansions it continues to hold its core principals and ideals closely. I look forward to seeing the program grows, expands, and changes in the coming years.

I knew when I was invited to join the Art Expression Board of Directors that I already connected with the mission and guiding principles of the organization. Overall, Art Expression, Inc. is motivated to provide programs that ‘facilitate positive socialization with children and adolescents through expressive art activities in an inclusive educational environment.”

It wasn’t until I became involved with the board that I realized this was so much more. To hear the positive statements of children finding their creativity and passion, growing in confidence both artistically and personally, and navigating the realm of positive socialization and peer to peer interaction because of the impact Art Expression is making in their lives renews a commitment to the work that Art Expression does in the schools and the community programs we service.

As a Music Therapist, writer, and social media manager, I have worked with many organizations and groups that do great work in the Pittsburgh area. Bringing those tools to the board and learning more in-depth about the work of Art Expression have been an exciting endeavor and I am proud of my association with the members of the board and the staff of Art Expression.

I encourage all artists, creative types, parents and school administrators, and those interested in bringing positive social tools through art, youth-focused groups who support inclusive programming, and community-based businesses who support youth and educational programs to learn more about the work our Masters level Art Therapists facilitate with these students and children through the many programs Art Expression offers. You won’t be disappointed.

Melissa Carey

Art Expression provided a valuable after-school experience for Colfax Upper Elementary School students in the Allegheny Valley School District. Students, staff and families appreciated the design of the program, especially the focus on creativity and individualized learning. The culminating activity was a showcase event that drew great response and increased interest and support for Art Expression. Allegheny Valley hopes to continue its partnership with Art Expression. Cheryl Griffith, Superintendent of Schools

As both a Board Member and as a Professional working in the field of education, I give my full endoresment to Art Expression. I have observed the program in action in the Keystone Oaks School District. Its impact on our students is impressive and the respect for others it engenders is so valuable.
Kathy Foster

it is such a pleasure to service on a board that cares so very much about children. Through Art Expression the children not only have fun creating their projects but also can express feelings about themselves. Sometimes in the normal environment of a regular classroom, children either can't or are afraid to express their feelings, but through the wonderful experience of Art Expression children feel comfortable being themselves.

Art Expression is a dynamic organization that works very hard to help children express themselves through their art work. I have seen the many positive impacts this program has created for children. The development and growth of self esteem is a goal of Art Expression and hopes to give kids another tool in their tool belt. This program is the only one of its kind making it unique, creative and exciting for kids.

I am a Board Member and Volunteer Consultant with Art Expression, Inc. I have seen the program up close and personal. The Art Expression program changes lives. Members participate in afterschool art directives aimed to stimulate education, social skills and personal growth. Everyone's art is seen as personal expression, and the group, the facilitators, and the mastered degreed art therapist all play a part in the fun. The most important part is that participants feel a connection and often times find friendships that develop, and teachers become true mentors. The program is inclusive, non-judgmental, fun, and educational.

I am an art therapist and have had the honor of facilitating Art Expressions programs in many Pittsburgh area schools over the past 8+ years. What I love about the Art Expressions programs are that they are fun experiences for children that allows them to explore feelings, emotions, troubles and most of all, the developing person they are becoming. I've experienced children in Art Expression programs share for the first time that they are victims of violence, sexual abuse or are a member of a family in crisis. I've experienced bullies and victims in the same Art Expressions group find middle ground. I've also experienced kids who appreciate the opportunity to address issues large and small; good or bad in an encouraging environment. It's magical, and we know it works. Feedback from families and school personal tell us we're on to something.

Art Expression provides wonderful programming for children! I have observed first hand the wonderful work their educators have done in the homeless shelter where I work. Their programming brought creativity and laughter into our space and provided kids with the opportunity to open up and make something truly unique. I think the kids truly enjoyed the process as much as the final products they created.