As part of the Cancer Support Community’s #HopeCrane project, members in our Origami workshop made paper cranes which have been a longstanding symbol of hope and wellness during difficult times. This particular workshop has been an integral part of many Red Door Community members’ recovery due to the support it provides.
“Origami supports the management of treatment side effects such as neuropathy and chemobrain by strengthening hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills and mental concentration,” says Emily Riordan, the workshop facilitator.
“The members also emotionally and socially support each other through encouragement when, for example, someone is challenged by a fold or they laugh together when the finished pieces don’t completely resemble the photos displayed in the instructions.”
Art therapy is helpful to people because its techniques provide an outlet of self-expression; through coloring, drawing, painting, sculpting, folding, or collage. These techniques examine the undertones of psychological and emotional feelings in the creator’s work, which allow them to truly understand their deeper thoughts and personalities.
At Red Door Community, we offer a variety of creative expression workshops that provide a haven of support and belonging. Being able to share one’s work with people going through similar struggles is something our members find invaluable.
The Wings of Hope was a group project created by participants in the origami workshop over time and currently hangs in the art room.
Special thanks to Emily Riordan who introduced and facilitated the workshop. We’ll miss you!
