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Devereux Massachusetts/Rhode Island students shine in local art contest

Artist Henri Matisse once said, “Creativity takes courage.”

Students at Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Massachusetts and Rhode Island are courageously expressing their hopes, fears and dreams through art – and earning accolades along the way.

Last fall, under the guidance of Lydia Gruner, an art teacher at Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island, students submitted their artwork into the Children’s League of Massachusetts’ (CLM) annual art contest. Earlier this year, Gruner was notified that three of her students won the competition.

“Our students were thrilled to have their artwork recognized in this way, and were extremely proud of themselves and what they accomplished,” said Gruner. “The process of creating art is therapeutic, and it helps our students – many of whom have faced significant trauma in their young lives – gain the confidence they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom.”

Devereux Massachusetts/Rhode Island Executive Director Kerry Ann Goldsmith agreed, saying, “Art provides a creative and positive outlet for our youth to express themselves. While it is always exciting to win a contest, in the end, winning is not what matters. What truly matters is that our students find their voice through art.”

About the art contest

Every year, CLM, a Boston-based social services organization, welcomes artists of all skill levels from its member organizations to submit artwork for its art contest. Winners are selected based on votes from the public. This year’s contest categories revolved around the themes: “Healing,” “Holiday,” “Social Justice” and “Thank You.”

Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island students Denise, Bryce and Michael placed as follows:

• Denise won second place in the “Thank You” category for her painting of a tree with the words, “Always Be Thankful.”
• Bryce won third place in the “Healing” category for his painting of a puppy; and
• Michael tied for third place in the “Social Justice” category for his depiction of a planet.

View all of the art contest winners.  

“Our students created some beautiful and amazing artwork! I want to thank our staff and supporters for rallying behind our youth and taking the time to cast their votes,” Gruner shared. “This contest is a celebration of the healing power of art, and our students learned they can accomplish great things with commitment and creativity.”

Learn about Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health.

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