Lending A Hand To Say Thanks
Licensed Art Therapist Eileen Druckenmiller, a counselor at Hoosick Falls Central School, has spearheaded a creative project to “lend a hand” and say thank you to COVID-19’s frontline responders. Druckenmiller put out a request for artwork with the only requirements that it depict a helping hand and state thank you. After receiving more than 60 pieces of artwork, she compiled them into a moving video.
“The beauty of a project like this, said Druckenmiller, “is that anyone of any age and any artistic ability can contribute. I put out a simple directive with only the two requirements and received back such a diverse collection of beautiful artwork.”
Like many of us, Druckenmiller wanted to offer thanks to those who are on the frontline of this pandemic.
“As an art therapist, I know the power a visual image can foster for both the creator and, in this case, the recipients. We know that creating artwork stimulates parts of the brain that foster feelings of calm and empowerment. When we share a collection of those images, we are able to showcase a community’s strength and unity. I felt this idea was a great way to bring us all together for a common message of thanks.”
Druckenmiller put out word at Hoosick Falls Central School and on social media, asking for the artistic contributions of staff, students, and their families and friends. Many teachers encouraged their students to complete a piece as part of their online learning.
Druckenmiller also encouraged all to share the idea by reaching out to extended family members, their friends, and fellow community members.
“While the majority of the pieces were done by people in Hoosick Falls, the project spread to areas outside of our immediate community,” said Druckenmiller.
“It was truly a pleasure to view each piece as it came back to me. Every single one is unique and, when put together, they simultaneously promote both our diversity and our unity.”
To view the video on YouTube, visit https://youtu.be/Erk–NIAvhg.
Druckenmiller hopes that people viewing the video will share it with those they know who are hard at work. “While I am reaching out to local organizations, I encourage everyone viewing the video to share it with any person or organization they know of that are helping to keep us safe and taken care of during COVID-19.”