Hillsboro’s Cultural Arts District Promotes Wellness Through Art

The Cultural Arts District in Hillsboro is fostering wellness and creativity through various art programs designed to enhance mental and emotional health. By offering a diverse range of activities, the district aims to support individuals in their pursuit of well-being.

Art as a Tool for Healing

According to the City of Hillsboro, the Parks & Recreation Cultural Arts and Outreach Supervisor, Julio Badel, emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of art. He stated, “Art has the ability to release stress, emotion, energy, and create meditative mindsets.” The district features venues such as the Walters Cultural Arts Center, which provides classes in yoga, ceramics, and painting. These activities not only encourage creativity but also promote a holistic approach to wellness.

Badel further noted, “The arts provide a cognitive, emotional, and physical experience that is essential to all peoples and cultures for personal expression.” This perspective highlights the importance of integrating art into everyday life as a method of self-care.

Innovative Therapy Approaches

At the Ancora Wellness Center, located on Lincoln Street, owner Kara Kazemba merges art with therapeutic practices. She offers services such as ecotherapy and art therapy, which are designed to enhance mindfulness and foster self-care. Kazemba pointed out, “In a culture that often pushes productivity over creativity, making space for art is a radical act of self-care and protest; one that affirms our wholeness.”

Additionally, the Cultural Arts District offers nature-inspired art classes led by Elizabeth Higgins. These classes allow participants to engage with their surroundings creatively, further enriching their wellness journey.

The Hillsboro Community Senior Center also plays a vital role in promoting creative engagement among seniors. Programs like “Canvas and Coffee” and “Material Girls” cater specifically to older adults, emphasizing the significance of art in healthy aging. Center manager Melissa Thompson remarked, “Art and creativity are essential to healthy aging,” reinforcing the notion that artistic expression can greatly benefit physical and mental health.

Through these initiatives, Hillsboro’s Cultural Arts District not only champions artistic expression but also underscores its vital role in fostering overall health and well-being in the community.