THE PROCESS

Dear Friend,

As we celebrate 15 years of The Art Therapy Project, our community continues to grow in exciting ways. From welcoming a new member to our Board to preparing for our milestone Spring Spectacular, this season is dedicated to the resilience of the 12,000 individuals we’ve served.

Here is a look at the latest updates from our team:

Board of Directors Update

We are so pleased to welcome Shayla Hayward-Lundy, MS, LPAT, ATR-BC to The Art Therapy Project’s Board of Directors and Development & Marketing Committee!

Shayla brings clinical expertise in military and veteran mental health, along with more than a decade of experience in nonprofit operations and fundraising. Her unique ability to bridge clinical insight with strategic development strengthens our commitment to expanding access to art therapy.

Read About Shayla’s Experience Including Our Latest Q&A

2026 Spring Spectacular Tickets on Sale Now!

Be part of our 15-year celebration on May 7, honoring more than 12,000 individuals served to date!

Proceeds directly support access to art therapy programs.

Purchase Tickets

Announcing our Live-Artist at 2026 Spring Spectacular

We’re thrilled to welcome Ramiro Davaro-Comas, Artist, Muralist and Co-Director of Super-Stories as this year’s live artist!

Guests will have a unique opportunity to contribute to Ramiro’s painting and the chance to learn about his numerous public mural installations.

Learn About Ramiro

New Employee Wellness Workshops!

You asked and we delivered!

After working with more than 2,000 individuals, we’ve learned that participants value workshops that foster team connection, offer space for stress relief, and spark meaningful shared conversation.

View and Book A Workshop

A 15-Year Moment

We’re excited to introduce the co-chairs of our Spring Spectacular on May 7—Board Member Nicole Turner and longtime supporter and former board member Sheryl Punia. Together, they’re helping us celebrate 15 years of The Art Therapy Project!

This year’s gala marks 15 years of The Art Therapy Project. What does this milestone mean to you personally?

"Fifteen years represents countless moments of courage and connection. It’s a powerful reminder of what can happen when people are given a safe space to express what words alone can’t hold."

Nicole Turner, Board Member &
Co-Chair, Gala Committee

What excites you most about helping bring this year’s gala to life?

"I am looking forward to honoring the people who make this mission possible, founder David Wasserman and his wife, Ellen, our dedicated administration, and our wonderful staff and honorees. It will be a beautiful, joyful evening where we can all come together to celebrate the incredible healing power of art."

Sheryl Punia, Co-Chair, Gala Committee

The Unexpected Stress Relief of Ripping Paper- An Art Therapist's Tip

Sometimes a way to release stress is as simple as ripping, tearing, or crumpling paper. This straightforward act can offer a therapeutic outlet, helping release pent-up emotions in a safe, tangible way.

Our Impact

As of January 31, 2026

12,566

Clients Served

10,648

Therapy Sessions

2,270

Wellness Workshop Participants

Each of these moments reflects the strength of our community and what’s possible when we come together in support of mental health. Whether you’re joining us on May 7, booking a workshop, or simply staying connected, your engagement helps ensure access to art therapy continues to grow in the years ahead.

Thank you,

Martha Dorn
Executive Director

Arts and Mental Health News

Springville Museum of Art on why a Visit is Good for Your Mental Health

‘A Safe and Healthy Outlet’: 9-Year-Old Helps Students Through Art Classes

Arts and Humanities in Psychiatry: Beyond Symptom Relief

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