Brilliant Resilience at The National Art Club's HELP USA Event
February 15, 2025
Avenue‘s Editor at Large ALEXANDER HANKIN reports
Timo Weiland, Shantell Martin and Christina Senia
The National Arts Club’s “Art of Resilience” event always inspires me. I toss on a Schiaparelli bomber jacket for the night, hosted by my dear friend, British artist Shantell Martin. I walk into the gallery showcasing art created by participants of HELP USA’s art therapy workshops. The pieces, brimming with emotion and storytelling, reflect the said resilience and journeys of people experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity. The event is about how art empowers individuals, build connections, and fosters healing.
“Art therapy is so vital – it empowers women to heal, discover their talents, and build brighter futures.” – Christina Senia
Sterling McDavid and Alexander Hankin
Michael Bulzomi with artist Baseera KhanLiz Cohen Hausman, Sarah Meister, Kathryn Beal, Tina Goodrich and Eden WilliamsGale Sitomer and London Clarke
Magic unfolds during Shantell’s live drawing session. With her infectious energy leading the way, guests eagerly grab markers and let creativity run wild. Everyone from seasoned artists to newcomers join in. Sterling McDavid and Timo Weiland start sketching their masterpieces. But the night isn’t just about art and fun; it’s also a call to action. HELP USA provides innovative programs that utilize art therapy to support people in need. Their therapeutic workshops offer a safe space for healing, for people to express their feelings, build self-esteem, and find community through creativity. Christina Senia, a co-chair of the event, tells me: “Art Resilience is more than just a safe haven for expression, creativity, and joy; it’s a powerful catalyst for healing and growth through art therapy. We illuminate pathways to meaningful employment. Art therapy is so vital – it empowers women to heal, discover their talents, and build brighter futures.”
Excitement grows as we learn about the unveiling of a commissioned work by artist Baseera Khan, which will be permanently displayed at HELP New Leaf, a family shelter opening this spring in Brooklyn. And limited-edition signed prints by Khan are available to buy, with 100% of the proceeds going directly to support HELP USA. As I head home, I can’t help but reflect on what Shantell told me, “The Help USA benefit is a beautiful reminder that creativity thrives in vulnerability. When we open ourselves up, we create space for connection, for community, and for imagining better futures together.”
