We all experience emotions, but how many of us understand them? Sure, we know when we are happy, sad, fearful, or full of joy, but coping with negative emotions can sometimes be overwhelming. For those suffering from a condition such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or memory issues such as Alzheimer’s or dementia, finding ways to combat the negative emotions surrounding these diseases can greatly benefit from alternative treatments like art and music therapy.
We all know how a song can evoke images, or a piece of art can impact us, so it isn’t a stretch to see that using art and music therapy can positively impact our emotions. While this is somewhat of a new approach to combating and healing the symptoms associated with PTSD, more studies are showing the effectiveness of treatments like these.
In accordance with “Art Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy for Combat-Related PTSD: A Randomized Controlled Trial”, published in the National Library of Medicine, “studies show that some traumatic memories are stored nonverbally and may be retrieved through recollections of sensory, affective, visual, olfactory, auditory, and kinesthetic elements.” Because some traumatic memories are stored nonverbally, the use of traditional cognitive therapies alone is not enough.
I found that many programs throughout the United States are dedicating their time to using music and art therapy to heal veterans suffering from PTSD. One such program is the David J. Drakulich (DJD) Art Foundation for Freedom of Expression, founded by Joe and Tina Drakulich to honor their beloved son David, who tragically was killed in combat on January 9, 2008, while deployed in Afghanistan.
When recently speaking with Tina Drakulich, who proudly shared her son David’s accomplishments. “David was an artist and an Airborne Ranger serving with the 82nd Airborne.” During his service, he received many commendations, including a Bronze Star. The foundation was created as a legacy to her son.
The Drakulich Foundation’s mission, as listed on its website, is to provide arts, humanities, and recreation programming to veterans and the military-connected community to improve healing and reintegration outcomes.
The foundation’s programs are engaging and creative and play a unique role in the healing process. The program I found most intriguing is the Thousand Cranes Paper Mill, which provides workshops on making paper from military uniforms. This program repurposes decommissioned military uniforms to make paper. The DJD Art Foundation website states, “This simple act of recycling can improve resilience, reintegration and reconciliation and begins a creative journey.” I can’t think of a more fitting way to use a part of one’s trauma to heal. While the past can’t be erased, something beautiful can come from it.
One veteran benefiting from this program is Larry Dawson. I had the pleasure of speaking with him. He was passionate about art from a young age, but his service in the military put his passion on hold for 17 years, including three tours in Iraq and one in Afghanistan. Dawson was diagnosed with PTSD and major depressive disorder.
While art is used to help heal past trauma, helping make the memories from it bearable, what about those whose memories are locked inside the minds of those suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia? Is it possible to use art to open the vault of someone’s mind? According to “Unlocking Memory: Art and Music Serve as Keys,” an article found in Today’s Geriatric Medicine, “Art and music therapy have proven successful in accessing deep-rooted memories and promoting communication in older adults with Alzheimer’s disease.”
I saw proof of this firsthand with my mom before she passed away. My mom was an artist. She used to draw the most beautiful and intricate Victorian homes. During the COVID lockdown, my mom’s nursing home didn’t allow visitors. To help alleviate her loneliness, I bought my mom some art supplies. It had been years since she had drawn, and with her dementia, I wasn’t sure she could, but to my surprise, she regained her ability to draw. Her typically shaky hands steadied enough to draw those Victorian homes again.
The use of music as a therapeutic measure to help those who have PTSD is just as powerful as art. How often have you listened to a song that evoked strong emotions? A song that triggers a memory. What if music could heal emotions related to trauma?
The number of veterans diagnosed with PTSD is astounding. A paper, “Music Therapy and Military Populations: A Status Report and Recommendations on Music Therapy Treatment, Programs, Research, and Practice Policy,” found on the American Music Therapy Association site, shares that “The prevalence of PTSD among the 1.7 million service members deployed under Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom is estimated to be about 15%.” This statistic excludes veterans from previous wars who currently struggle with and try to manage PTSD.
How does music therapy help veterans with PTSD? According to the Warrior Alliance site, “Music therapy works by engaging different areas of the brain that process emotions, memories, and sensory experiences. For veterans with PTSD, the use of music can evoke emotions and memories in a safe and controlled environment, allowing them to explore and express their feelings without the pressure of verbal communication.”
With organizations such as Pacific Coast Community Services (PCCS), Makers Paradise, and the David J. Drakulich Art Foundation, access to art and music programs is becoming more accessible for our veterans. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recognizes the importance of these therapies. “Creative arts therapies are part of VA’s Recreation Therapy Service and are direct care programs that include art, dance/movement, drama and music.”
The effects of art and music therapy are not limited to just to those with PTSD. More and more, music therapy is being used to help those with memory issues such as Alzheimer’s and dementia. PCCS and Makers Paradise offer art and music classes to benefit those with memory issues.
Valerie Turpen, a job coach at PCCS, is committed beyond her job title. She works at Lincoln Senior Apartments and Elegance Senior Facility. Through her work, Valerie pairs seniors with interns through an art program. Together, the pair form a friendship that enriches their lives.
Each PCCS and Makers Paradise staff member brings unique gifts to the seniors they work with. Klara Ernyes brought her gifts with her when she immigrated from Yugoslavia, where she worked as a journalist. Once in the United States, Klara continued her education and is now a certified mental health specialist. She provides a classical music appreciation class for those with memory issues. Klara shared that music has a positive effect on the seniors she works with. “It causes them to be happier, calmer.”
Music had the same powerful effect on my mom. Not long before she passed away, I spoke to her on the phone, and she told me about her favorite song. She couldn’t remember who sang it or the song’s name, so she sang it to me—every single word. For her, it was the way she connected to forgotten memories and gave her peace.
Lawrence Silva, Director of Makers Paradise and Chief Operating Officer of PCCS, has dedicated his life to helping the most vulnerable in our society. He has seen firsthand the positive benefits art and music therapy have had and stated “Art and music provide veterans with PTSD and seniors with memory loss both joy and therapeutic benefits.”
Silva continued, “Makers Paradise art and therapy programs allow veterans and seniors to work with teaching artists and be creative while expressing their emotions and thoughts. Pacific Coast Community Services job coaches and interns are valuable partners in the classes.”
“The classes are an effective way to deal with mental health and trauma and increase coping skills,” Silva shared. When asked about the interaction between staff, interns, and the participants, he added, “The art and music therapy programs not only enrich the lives of the participants but also create bonds between the teachers, job coaches, and interns. Seeing the smiles on the participants’ faces and the beautiful art and music that is created is a testimony to how the program aids with healing.”
The use of art and music is changing the lives of veterans and seniors. Whether veterans create a piece of art to help them heal or music that evokes the memory of seniors, the positive emotional impact is tremendous. As with all nonprofits, they rely on grants and donations. If you want to donate to these worthy organizations, please visit their website. ♦
Healing Through Art and Music
By Ruth Cowan | December 2024
Director’s Update & Insights
By Lawrence Silva | December 2024
2024 was an exciting and positive year for Makers Paradise. Our organization continues to grow and develop new and innovative programs that benefit local art communities in the San Francisco Bay Area and Reno, Nevada. We are excited to announce the re-opening of our art gallery in Berkeley, CA in early 2025 and the implementation of new programming for art therapy and art classes at both of our locations. Additionally, Makers Paradise is partnering with numerous non-profit organizations and artists to create new art classes for children, individuals with disabilities, and veterans. We look forward to building on our achievements as we expand our programs and existing facilities.
Our dedicated team was successful in creating and developing new art programming and events throughout the year in Reno, Nevada, including two successful fundraisers at Reno Public Market for the Veterans Art Garden at the Northern Nevada State Veterans Home, which featured live music, art shows, and presentations on the project. Additional fundraising activities for the Veterans Art Garden included the creation of a challenge coin and T-shirts that are being sold to raise funds for the project. The progress of the Veterans Art Garden is on schedule, and Makers Paradise continues to assist with the project on many levels, including the development of the art criteria and artist agreements, recruitment of artists, and additional fundraising and grant-writing opportunities. The art gallery at the Reno Public Market continues to generate monthly art shows and art collectives where local artists can display and sell their art. Our art studios have also been fully rented, which adds to our diverse artist community.
Makers Paradise is also developing new art classes and programming in Reno, Nevada with various community partners to include KT Grace Foundation. KT Grace Foundation and Makers Paradise are planning to develop children’s art classes with local school districts and other non-profit organizations in 2025 through grant funding that will allow underserved and foster youth to benefit from various art programs to be hosted at Reno Public Market.
Makers Paradise is planning to reopen our Berkeley art gallery in early 2025 at our 1790 Shattuck Avenue space. Remodeling will be completed by January 2025, and the gallery is slated to reopen in February 2025. Makers Paradise has plans for monthly art shows and events with a state of the art gallery that will exhibit art from local artists. Additionally, Makers Paradise continues to provide art therapy programs in the local community, including Ability Now in Oakland, CA, and other new sites that are presently being developed.
Makers Paradise looks forward to a productive and prosperous 2025. We appreciate the support we have received through our art communities and partners. As we expand and develop new programs and services at both of our locations, I am confident that our mission and goals will be reached and will be beneficial to our artists and the communities we serve. ♦
Paradise Found: Rebuilding Creativity in Berkeley
By April White | December 2024
On Berkeley’s Shattuck Avenue, a beloved artistic space is preparing to reintroduce itself to the community. Makers Paradise, long cherished for its role in fostering creativity and connection is preparing to celebrate its Grand Reopening in early 2025. Following a temporary closure for earthquake retrofitting and a pause during the pandemic, the space is poised to reemerge once again as a vibrant hub for inspiration, collaboration, and shared ideas.
“We are excited to see the community once again thrive through our newly renovated art gallery—an amazing venue for events and the center of all of our art programming,” says Lawrence Silva, Director of Makers Paradise. His words capture the hope and excitement surrounding the reopening and the renewed mission to provide an inclusive, welcoming space for artistic expression and exploration.
Makers Paradise is designed to offer something for everyone. The fine art gallery will highlight the eclectic talents of local artists and community members, celebrating the rich diversity of expression found in the Bay Area. Monthly events will showcase a mix of visual art, live music, spoken word, and poetry, ensuring a dynamic and ever-changing experience. Beyond exhibitions, Makers Paradise will host art therapy programs, providing participants with tools for expressing themselves and healing.
Workshops and classes will welcome artists of all skill levels, and the space will also serve as a venue for community gatherings and offer office space for creative professionals.
The history of 1790 Shattuck Avenue adds depth and significance to the reopening. Formerly home to Serendipity Books, the building was a cornerstone during the Beat movement of the 1950s and 60s. A haven for literature lovers and a meeting place those with boundary-pushing ideas, it left an indelible mark on Berkeley’s creative landscape. Today, Makers Paradise draws inspiration from that legacy. Its mission—to foster imagination, collaboration, and inclusion—is a modern extension of the free-spirited ethos that defined Serendipity’s era.
Before its closure in 2020, Makers Paradise had already become a cherished part of the community. Events like the Makers Ball, Summer Solstice Party, and Autumn Harvest Reception brought people together to celebrate art and forge connections. Art therapy programs empowered participants to share their work and find their voice. Painters, poets, musicians, and other creators infused the space with artistic energy. While the closure posed challenges, it also provided an opportunity to reimagine and improve the space for the future.
The renovations and updgrades have been transformative, prioritizing accessibility and inclusivity. New ADA-compliant features, a refreshed gallery, and thoughtful updates ensure that Makers Paradise is functional, inviting and welcoming to all. Plans for the reopening are already underway, with new art shows, events, and programs designed to celebrate the immense talent within the community. When the doors officially reopen in 2025, Makers Paradise will once again be a place where inspiration thrives and connections are made and cultivated.
More than a gallery, Makers Paradise is a home for artistic dreams, a gathering place for shared inspiration, and a community resource dedicated to empowering people through art.
The Grand Reopening marks not only the return of a cherished space, but also the celebration of the enduring power of expression to bring people together. Whether you’re an artist, an admirer, or simply curious to see what’s inside, the Makers Paradise team invites you to help shape this next chapter. ♦
Art Garden Nearing Completion
By Ruth Cowan | December 2024
Veterans and supporters of the Northern Nevada State Veterans Home (NNSVH) are excitedly awaiting the opening of the Mission Connection Veterans Art Garden, which is nearing completion. This one-of-a-kind garden is tentatively scheduled to open in mid-June 2025. Its creation has been a collaborative effort involving many contributors, including dedicated and engaged residents of the veterans’ home with qualitative input.
Since its inception, the Veterans Art Garden has been a labor of love by all involved. It will provide a place of peace and respite for facility residents and staff, as well as a space for the veterans and their families to gather. The garden will showcase art installations and beautiful landscaping.
Julie Dudley, NNSVH Liaison Officer, said the garden’s intent is to “make it very bright and colorful.” To add to the whimsical theme, the garden will feature kinetic wind sculptures, a life-sized xylophone, and a “Kaleidoscape” created by artist Sara Frucht. “The garden will include a stage area for community concerts, speakers and plays” according to the NNSVH website.
Wally Luetje, an integral part of the project and a resident of the NNSVH, shared, “We want the public to enjoy what the theme of the veteran’s home is: it’s a home for Nevada’s heroes.” Luetje continued, “Now its exclusive art garden is to be shared with the public.”
Starting with the imagination of the NNSVH staff, this whimsical garden has been a source of hope for many. Architect Ron Crook sketched the design for the Art Garden based on the staff’s concept. According to Crook, his design includes “serpentine circles” that break up a more traditional walkway.
From the beginning, everyone knew this project would be something truly special, but its meaning to the residents is extraordinary. When describing what the garden means to veterans, Luetje stated, “As a Vietnam veteran with two Purple Hearts and lots of memories of friends lost, it will be the best place to go and talk to your friends, [and] say hi to God every once in a while.” He continued, “It will be a great place to reminisce with fellow veterans, talk about our past, and get to know each other a little better.”
According to Luetje, “The setting will be peaceful, calm, inviting, and enjoyable.” Upon completion, the Veterans Art Garden will undoubtedly be a remarkable space. With the help of grants and its partnership with Makers Paradise, which has conducted multiple fundraisers to support the garden, the project has been partially complete but is still looking for donations.
One great way to contribute is by purchasing a challenge coin featuring the Mission Connection Art Garden logo. The coins, along with other merchandise and additional information, are available at www.veteransartgarden.org. You can also visit the website to make a monetary donation. ♦
The Art of Marketing for Empowered Creators
By Otto DeLeon | December 2024
My passion for graphic design and website development took root in the 1990s while working for the California Dental Association. Despite considering my skills more “mechanical” than those of classical artists, the creative expression involved in content development and graphic design always fascinated me. The thought of pursuing this as a commercial endeavor, however, was always intimidating.
For many, especially those facing unique barriers like disabilities or veteran status, transitioning from hobbyist to professional artist can seem daunting. But with the right approach, art can become a powerful source of growth, expression, and financial stability. Marketing, when embraced as storytelling, allows artists to share not just their work but the inspiration and passion behind it.
Strategies for Success: To turn art into a business, a shift in mindset is essential. Marketing isn’t about “selling out”—it’s about finding an audience and inviting them into your world.
1. Build an Online Presence: Showcasing work online taught me the value of consistency and engagement. Sharing not just finished pieces, but the creative process and sources of inspiration helps build a relationship with an audience that’s more personal and lasting.
2. Collaborate with Partners: Working with organizations like Makers Paradise builds credibility and expands an artist’s reach. Partnering with other creatives and institutions has made marketing feel less isolating and has opened doors I couldn’t reach alone.
3. Participate in Art Fairs and Shows: In-person events provide direct feedback and valuable networking opportunities. Meeting other artists and learning from their insights has been both inspiring and educational, often proving more valuable than sales alone.
4. Utilize Email Marketing: Initially underestimated, email has become a key tool for reaching loyal supporters. Regular updates on new projects and exclusive content keep audiences engaged and excited for what’s next. These campaigns build loyalty and anticipation.
5. Explore Electronic Merchandising: Seeing my designs as products online was a pivotal moment. Electronic merchandising expands revenue streams and offers a unique way to share art beyond the traditional canvas, reaching people in their everyday lives.
While some individuals naturally navigate challenges, others benefit from having these skills demonstrated through guidance and support. The unpredictability of income and shifting market demands can feel overwhelming. Balancing commercial viability with artistic vision is no easy task, but staying focused on the purpose behind your art can keep you grounded. Resources and connections, such as those at Makers Paradise, are invaluable for navigating financial and marketing strategies, making the business side of art more manageable.
The importance of community for artists cannot be undervalued. Looking back, community support has been one of my most valuable assets. Formal partnerships, peer feedback, and informal collaborations have fueled my growth over time. Engaging with others who understand the creative journey provides a sense of shared purpose and mutual encouragement that’s crucial to artistic resilience.
Turning points in art and business often begin gradually, gaining momentum as they unfold. Transforming art into a sustainable enterprise is a blend of creativity and strategic thinking. Marketing helps artists bridge the gap between their vision and their audience’s experience. By crafting stories that resonate, each work becomes more than a product—it becomes part of a larger narrative.
The journey from passion to profitability is filled with challenges, yet it is deeply rewarding. Through creativity, resilience, and strategic promotion, artists can create a sustainable enterprise. With the right tools and community, artists of all abilities can make a meaningful impact and share their talents with the world. ♦
A Holiday Message
From Our Team | December 2024
Dear Friends and Supporters of Makers Paradise,
As 2024 draws to a close, we at Makers Paradise would like to express our gratitude to all of our community partners, artists, and patrons who contributed to our mission. We deeply appreciate the commitment of our fellow dedicated team members and supporters like you. Your belief in our vision makes everything we do possible, helping us use art to inspire, heal, and connect. Together, we’ve built spaces where creativity thrives and where every individual feels seen and valued. We are excited about the future of our organization and all we will accomplish together.
2024 was a pivotal year for Makers Paradise, as we continued to grow and strengthen our impact in both Reno and Berkeley. In Reno, our innovative programming and exhibits created welcoming spaces where artists of all levels could connect, refine their skills, and showcase their work. Meanwhile, in Berkeley, we eagerly prepare for a new chapter with the grand reopening of our remodeled site in early 2025. This refreshed space, featuring expanded classes, modern facilities, and dynamic events, will bring our community together in person once again, sparking inspiration and collaboration after years of virtual connection. Across both locations, Makers Paradise remains dedicated to creating environments where creativity uplifts, unites, and transforms.
Central to our mission is our commitment to serving diverse and often marginalized populations. From supporting veterans as they explore their artistic potential to providing resources for people with disabilities and emerging artists, Makers Paradise is a space where creativity fosters resilience, connection, and growth. As part of our expansion, we’re excited to partner with other non-profit organizations, public agencies, and artists to provide art classes for disadvantaged and underserved communities. At the same time, we continue to support our existing art community with cutting-edge equipment and an inclusive art collective.
As we look ahead to the opportunities of 2025, your support is more important than ever. Expanding our programming means hiring skilled teachers, enhancing classrooms, and providing state-of-the-art materials. It means intentionally and strategically creating spaces where every individual can discover the transformative power of art.
This is where you come in. Your support allows us to provide art classes and create spaces where veterans, seniors, people with disabilities, and justice-impacted individuals can freely express themselves. These opportunities foster connection, growth, and the life-changing power of creativity—none of which would be possible without your support. Every donation, no matter the size, has a meaningful impact. Whether you choose to make a monthly contribution, a one-time gift, or simply spread the word about our mission, you’re investing in a brighter, more inclusive future.
As we celebrate this holiday season, we reflect on all we’ve accomplished together —and the exciting path that lies ahead. Thank you for believing in the power of art to heal, inspire, and transform. We’re honored to have you with us on this journey.
Wishing you warmth and creativity this holiday season,
The Makers Paradise Team
Day Morrow: The Loss of the Hidden Gem
By Ruth Cowan | December 2024
There is one thing I know for sure: there is no one on earth we know entirely. Each of us always keeps a part hidden from the world, no matter how small. This secret part of our soul remains unseen. For those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), this truth is ever more pronounced. Artist Day Morrow is no exception.
Morrow’s many artistic masterpieces were hidden. While he was becoming known for his rock and roll-themed t-shirts featuring his painted patchwork style, it was only after his passing that the true extent of his artistic ability was discovered through his vast collection of pictures and artwork.
As is typical for individuals with ASD, Morrow had obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). This was reflected in his unwillingness to part with any of his artwork. According to the article Day Sees the Light: A Retrospective of a Life by Andre Le Mont Wilson, published in Quickest Flip, Morrow saved every piece of art from childhood and beyond. However, his father eventually convinced him to store his artwork in tubs outside, where it ultimately disappeared.
While many may not realize the exceptional creativity of those on the autism spectrum, Morrow’s works make it undeniably clear. From his photos and cartoons to his sculptures and handmade wigs, his creative ventures were wide-ranging. He began creating wigs to cover up his hair loss.
Morrow’s unique creative ability made him an artist in every sense of the word. His creativity knew no bounds, even extending to his wardrobe. He wore his handmade wigs, patchwork clothing, and even face masks made from felt in colors corresponding to different holidays.
While much of Morrow’s artistic talent was hidden, what he did share with others was nothing short of creative genius. Lawrence Silva, Director of Makers Paradise, recognized Marrow’s artistic excellence. He told Wilson, “Day was an amazing artist who combined music and visual art to make a unique clothing line.”
If only we had been privy to Morrow’s entire body of work, much of which had been lost or destroyed, the world could appreciate his true artistic genius. Fortunately, thanks to his family’s generous donation of surviving pieces, his legacy lives on. ♦
Creativity and Compassion: Katie Grace Foundation Partners with Maker’s Paradise Reno
By April White | December 2024
The Katie Grace Foundation, established in memory of Katie Weingartner, has partnered with Makers Paradise Reno to bring art programs to children in the Reno community. This partnership marks an exciting step for both organizations, combining their efforts to inspire creativity and provide opportunities for young people with diverse backgrounds.
Katie’s legacy is at the heart of the foundation, which her family created after her tragic passing in 2017. She is remembered for her kindness, inclusivity, and generosity—qualities that continue to shape the foundation’s mission.
The collaboration for 2025 introduces art classes and workshops designed for foster youth, emerging young artists, and children from diverse backgrounds. Teaching artists will lead participants in exploring different art styles and mediums, encouraging them to express themselves and discover the joy of creativity.
“Makers Paradise is proud to partner with the Katie Grace Foundation to provide art programs and classes to youth in the Reno community,” said Lawrence Silva, Director of Makers Paradise. “Together, we are building inclusive art programs for children of all ages, encouraging them to expand their creative minds while developing their artistic abilities.”
The partnership also builds upon months of planning, as both organizations worked to design programs that align with their missions. “By utilizing the strengths of both organizations, Makers Paradise is confident that 2025 will be an exciting year to launch the new art programming and classes we’ve been designing over the past year,” Silva added. “We look forward to many successful outcomes and to continuing to develop additional programs that Reno youth can benefit from.”
While this collaboration brings new opportunities to Reno, it’s just one example of how the Katie Grace Foundation keeps Katie’s memory alive. From redistributing donated goods to supporting education and athletics, the foundation consistently works to uplift the community. Programs like Katie Bug Boutique (pictured below), which provides essentials to families in shelters, and Katie’s Shoe Cabinets (also pictured below), which offer shoes to those in need, reflect her compassion. Scholarships inspired by Katie’s love of volleyball have helped Northern Nevada students pursue higher education, with more than $54,000 awarded to date.
Through its partnership with Makers Paradise and its ongoing efforts, the Katie Grace Foundation ensures that Katie’s spirit continues to inspire hope and creativity in the Reno community and beyond. Together, the two organizations are creating inclusive spaces for young people to grow, learn, and express themselves in authentic and meaningful ways. ♦
