Celebrating Two Decades of Finding the Spark Within at the WAE Center

The WAE Center at JSDD is proud to celebrate 20 years of empowering artists, nurturing creative expression, and embracing the ever-evolving nature of art.

Since 2004, the WAE (Wellness, Arts, and Enrichment) Center has been dedicated to “Finding the Spark Within” for everyone who attends. What began with one-on-one sessions using acrylics and drawing has grown into a vibrant, inclusive art program that continually expands the boundaries of creativity.

The Evolution of the WAE Studio

2004: Artmaking begins with acrylic painting and drawing in individual sessions.
Today: The WAE Center is home to three dedicated art studios and supports a wide variety of media, including:
- Fiber Arts
- Digital Art
- Photography
- Weaving
- Printmaking
- Mixed Media
- Traditional Painting & Drawing

Artists now participate in group classes, artist intensives, collaborative projects, and self-directed work, supported by visiting artists and skilled facilitators.

A Community That Creates Together

The art studios are more than workspaces—these are thriving creative spaces. Here, artists express themselves individually and collectively, discovering new materials, techniques, and ways to connect.

Our dedicated art facilitators play a vital role in this evolution, bringing expertise and adaptive practices that support each artist’s journey. Together, we create a culture where curiosity, experimentation, and collaboration flourish.

The Power of Creative Expression

At the WAE Center, creativity is a daily wonder. It empowers individuals, strengthens community, and celebrates the uniqueness of every voice. The impact of the past 20 years is seen in every brushstroke, every woven thread, and every digital design—each piece a testament to growth, courage, and expression.

As we honor this milestone, we look ahead to the unimagined possibilities of what comes next. Because at the WAE Center, evolution is inevitable—and creativity leads the way.

Workshop: Drawing to Transform Your Emotional Landscape (Picture Tapping)

Sunday, September 14th, 2-4pm

Learn how to effectively clear stress with drawing! Combining expressive drawing with Tapping, an emotional processing technique, clear your excess stress, calm the nervous system, and come back into emotional balance. Our subconscious speaks to us in pictures, colors, and texture, so the Picture Tapping Technique bypasses our conscious mind, helping to create lasting inner transformation. Tapping has been proven effective for everything from PTSD to curbing cravings in over 160 peer reviewed and published studies. Come experience it for yourself! No previous art or Tapping experience required.

Join Facilitator Kris Ferraro in this unique experience.
https://www.instagram.com/kriseft/

Meet the Artists of the WAE Center at JSDD

Sunday, September 28th, 2-4pm

Join us in celebrating 20 years of creativity and expression at the WAE Center!

Heidi Gallery proudly presents the final phase of our anniversary year, featuring artwork from more than 50 WAE Center artists. This special exhibition showcases a rich and diverse collection spanning two decades — honoring the voices of both current members and those from years past.

Come experience the power of art, community, and imagination.