Participants during a class at NIA.
PHILIPSBURG–Prins Bernhard Cultuur Fonds donated to National Institute of Arts to assist with the Art Heals Hurricane Relief Arts Programme which is in its sixth week. The programme was created as a direct response to Hurricane Irma and its aftermath.
“We knew that as a result of these cataclysmic weather conditions, the community would need some relief from stresses and trauma brought on by the storm,” said NIA Co-Director Clara Reyes. “What we know for sure is that the arts have proven through their many forms of therapies to be very effective and generating tangible results from creative expressive activities to bring about healing.”
The Art Heals Programme is open to all and free of cost to the participants, thanks in part to Prins Bernhard Cultuur Fonds, Art Saves Lives Foundation and the commitment and dedication of NIA teachers and staff.
Classes at John Larmonie Centre on Long Wall Road are daily from 3:30 to 6:30 pm. There is something for everyone, from capoeira with teacher Jacque Heemskerk to yoga with teacher Arlene Halley.
NIA teachers and staff have been volunteering their time and donating their expertise to make this programme possible.
“The community response in attendance is a confirmation that this programme is providing a much need service,” said NIA Co-Director Arlene Halley. “Many classes featured opportunity for both parent and child to participate in the programme and the funds received from the Prins Bernhard Cultuur Fonds provide some financial assistance to cover teachers’ salaries, thereby keeping the programme free of cost to the community. … We are very happy with the turnout.”
The programme will end on December 16 with a showcase and a presentation on the benefits of life engaged in creative expressive experiences.
Drop by the NIA offices at John Larmonie Centre after 3:00pm for more information. The building has no Internet or phone service at this time.
Source: The Daily Herald https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/70657-bernhard-fund-supports-nia-relief-programme
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