Wings Of Freedom: Community Art Project
Contributed by Holly Gittlein
Wings of Freedom was the second annual Art & Nature Camp held at MY House, an organization that works with homeless and at-risk youth. Led by sculptor Holly Gittlein and mosaic artist Terri-Anne Kilborn, the camp focused on the theme of Freedom and explored what freedom means at a personal, community, and global level.
During the week-long camp, youth spent mornings learning about their inner worlds by aligning with nature through Qi Gong, art therapy, and meditation. True freedom or liberation comes from within, and this can be done by learning to control one’s mind and emotions.
Led by Holly Gittlein the camp explored both ancient and modern techniques to empower youth to gain control of their inner worlds. Two mornings were field trips to Wasilla and Matanuska Lake where campers created Earth healing sculptures from organic materials collected at the sites. These natural sculptures were left in place for the community to enjoy.
Afternoons were spent learning mosaic techniques and creating a public art piece for the MY House drop-in center. Led by Terri-Anne Kilborn, youth used pieces of glass, mirrors, and found objects in the process of creating. The process was exhilarating and the energy created by the kids drew other youth in like a magnet. Every day, the camp would grow in size as more kids became enticed with the Wings of Freedom.
The sculpture is designed for the community to utilize as a photo opportunity. The background is graffiti art. The camp was a great success. Participants reported feeling more connected to their true selves, making new friends, and finding their wings of freedom. Come take a photo with your own Wings of Freedom at 300 North Willow Street in downtown Wasilla. Come feel the love, joy, and freedom from which it was created.
For more information or to support local at-risk youth please visit www.myhousematsu.org or www.hollygittlein.com
