Amid the bustling art scene of Akron, J Travis, the visionary owner of Inspiring Canvases, has emerged as a beacon of creativity and advocacy. Known for her compelling depictions of women and the enchanting beauty of outer space, Travis has turned her personal battles with anxiety and clinical depression into a powerful community initiative. Her program, Assuage HER, is dedicated to addressing mental health challenges among women in Summit County through creative and therapeutic outlets.
Travis’s art business, Inspiring Canvases, is a testament to her unique talent and passion. Her abstract artwork frequently features women as central themes, celebrating their strength and resilience, while her cosmic-inspired pieces capture the mesmerizing allure of the universe. This artistic vision has been a cornerstone of her identity, but it is her journey through mental health struggles that has deeply influenced her work and community impact.
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated Travis’s anxiety and depression, conditions she had long battled but which became more severe during this challenging period. With untreated symptoms leading to a profound depression, Travis found a lifeline through her husband, who encouraged her to channel her feelings into art. He gifted her a canvas and paint set, sparking a new chapter in her life. Since then, art has become an essential part of her daily self-care routine, significantly improving her mental health alongside therapy and medication.
Travis’s personal experiences, combined with her education as a Community Health Worker, highlighted the urgent need for culturally competent mental health services in Summit County. Her research revealed that women, particularly Black women, face heightened stress levels and often encounter barriers to accessing appropriate mental health resources. This gap in services inspired her to create Assuage HER, a program designed to offer creative and therapeutic outlets specifically tailored to address these issues.
Assuage HER provides a diverse range of classes aimed at reducing anxiety and stress. These include nail art, makeup, crocheting, painting, cooking, and charcuterie board preparation. Unlike traditional events that may revolve around alcohol, Assuage HER focuses on providing artistic experiences that foster relaxation and creativity. The program’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in its approach: classes are held throughout Akron, including downtown areas, community centers, and public libraries, ensuring broad accessibility.
To further enhance the program’s reach, Assuage HER collaborates with local small businesses and minority-owned enterprises. These partnerships not only support the program but also contribute to the local economy. By providing all necessary materials and ensuring the classes are accessible, Assuage HER has made a significant impact, as evidenced by positive feedback from participants who report feeling more relaxed and equipped with new skills.
Travis’s strategic approach includes forging valuable partnerships with businesses and community organizations, which has bolstered Assuage HER’s effectiveness. The mutual support among these partners fosters a sense of unity and strengthens community ties, amplifying the program’s impact.
Managing the program while coping with her own mental health challenges remains a significant undertaking for Travis. She oversees all aspects of Assuage HER, from planning to execution, often feeling overwhelmed by the demands. To manage this, she prioritizes self-care, takes breaks when needed, and seeks support when necessary.
Looking to the future, Travis envisions expanding Assuage HER through additional collaborations with community organizations and educational institutions. Key to this growth will be developing an online platform for virtual classes and securing funding or grants. Her long-term goal is to provide sustainable, culturally competent mental health services to minority communities, particularly women of color, creating a robust support network that empowers women to prioritize their mental well-being without fear of stigma.
Assuage HER’s success is measured through participant feedback and regular surveys, which consistently highlight the program’s positive impact. Each class begins with a check-in on participants’ emotions, and follow-up surveys gauge their experience and interest in future classes. The overwhelmingly positive responses underscore the program’s effectiveness in addressing mental health concerns.
For those looking to create similar initiatives, Travis’s experience underscores the importance of thorough research and understanding community needs. Designing culturally competent programs, building strategic partnerships, and monitoring impact are essential steps for success.
Assuage HER has already made a significant mark in Summit County, addressing mental health issues through innovative and culturally sensitive approaches. The program’s success and positive feedback position it as a promising opportunity for investors passionate about mental health and community well-being. Their support will be crucial in expanding Assuage HER’s reach, enhancing its resources, and developing innovative solutions for minority communities.
Through Inspiring Canvases and Assuage HER, J Travis has not only transformed her personal struggles into a powerful force for community healing but has also highlighted the profound impact of integrating art with mental health advocacy. Her journey serves as a testament to the transformative potential of creativity and culturally competent services, promising even greater advancements in the well-being of women in Summit County and beyond.
Written by: Journalist Shay
Social Media: @journalistshay
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