Regardless of your politics, we can all agree that any solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is going to take a whole lot of creativity. Two alumni artists, Rena Grosser (’03) and Ariela Robinson (’01), took that notion literally, joining Artists 4 Israel and collaborating on an art healing kit project for children in bomb shelters. This phenomenal duo was featured on this blog recently for a different collaborative project, The Traveling Classroom. They’ve gotten together this time to use their passion for the sake of Israel’s children and families. See their story in pictures below and read more about the art healing kits here. To get involved in kit packing parties and more, contact Rena, who is pictured at left.
Rena and Ariela collaborated with other artists and therapists to create 250 therapeutic art kits for children in bomb shelters and delivered them this past summer. The group plans to return after Sukkot to deliver more.Ariela Robinson delivers a package to a classroom of kids, bringing smiles to young Israelis living in traumatic circumstances this past summer.Rena and Ariela’s group bring collaborative, therapeutic art projects to Kibbutz Saad.Activities in the kits are intended to promote resilience, empowerment and strength. Animal finger puppets help kids identify with the strength of that animal and talk about what would be a secure home for that animal. Bubbles promote deep breathing, and relaxation, while providing an immediate attachment between child and adult during stressful moments.Rena says, “We tried to communicate and see as much as we could so we can offer the best possible help. Distributing the kits and trying to listen and learn was very powerful.”
