Art Program

Opening doors to self-expression through the creative process.

Mission

The mission of the Shalom House Art Program is to encourage self-expression through the visual arts for people living with psychiatric disabilities. Our goal is to provide a safe, supportive environment where participants can freely explore and express ideas, learn new skills and discover their strengths and abilities.

Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 11:30 AM-4:00 PM

The Art Program offers a wide range of classes designed for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced artists. Projects are thoughtfully designed to engage both visual and hands-on skills while encouraging creativity, confidence, and personal expression.

Participants bring their own unique perspectives and life experiences into the studio, creating a supportive community. For many, regular participation in art classes provides a therapeutic benefit, helping to reduce stress and lessen the impact of mental illness.

Artists have opportunities throughout the year to exhibit and sell their work at local and regional events, including South Portland’s annual Art in the Park, the HOPE Conference, and other exhibitions.

Through learning new skills and exploring creative self-expression, participants often experience meaningful growth. For individuals living with mental illness, art can be a powerful tool for self-recovery, offering both personal achievement and a tangible reminder of what is possible.

Interested in joining? Reach out to Tenney Swift, 207-847-1080.

Purchase Art

Tenney Swift, Art Instructor

Tenney has been the Shalom House Art Instructor since 2007. A Maine College of Art alumna, Tenney spent six years facilitating an Art Program for adults with developmental disabilities.

In 2007 Shalom House approached her about running its program. When she met some of the people at Shalom and got a look at the studio space, she jumped at the opportunity. “I want people to understand that this is a facilitated working studio space,” says Tenney. “I am the facilitator. I don’t stand up and lecture. I want the pressure off, so people are more inclined to come in. You can jump into a group project at any time and you can work on your own projects, too. For some people, it’s almost like coming in and directing their own therapy. They might choose a project that helps quiet their own symptoms. In a way, you’re in the driver’s seat with your own art therapy.” “My number one focus is getting people to feel confident putting their own artwork out there and to also feel confident pricing their own artwork and becoming independent. And I want them to enjoy it here and keep coming back.

Tenney300x325

Email: tswift@shalomhouseinc.org

Phone: 207-874-1080 Ext. 7169

Fax: 207-874-1077

Mail: Shalom House, Inc. Attn: Tenney Swift, 106 Gilman St., Portland ME 04102

Art Program Wish List

Help us stretch our limited resources as far as possible with a contribution of supplies, materials, equipment and more from our wish list! All donations can be mailed to the address above.

  • Paint – acrylic, watercolor or oil
  • Canvas – all sizes
  • Markers
  • Paint brushes
  • Fabric
  • Batting or stuffing
  • Glue – all kinds
  • Tools – scissors, carving tools, xacto knives, hammers, nails
  • Paper – colored or white
  • Yarn
  • Beads
  • Jewelry findings
  • Pens and pencils
  • Picture frames