At Valerie’s House, we are deeply thankful for the collaboration between United Arts Collier (UAC), the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, and our organization, which has resulted in a powerful display of artwork created by the children of Valerie’s House. Each piece in this collection is a unique expression of the emotional journeys our children are navigating as they heal from the loss of a loved one.

Under the compassionate guidance of UAC teaching artist Tiani Rosado, our young artists, ranging from 5 to 18 years old, were encouraged to use acrylic paint and canvas to explore their feelings. Tiani shared, “I had three prompts: What is a fond memory you have with your person? What are some tough feelings you experienced after your loss? And what gives you hope for the future?”

Among the young artists are sisters Lily and Ivy, who lost their father, Michael. Both of their art projects represent him in their own personal way. Lily reflected, “I was drawing the ocean because sometimes I would go to the beach with my mom and dad, and we would watch the sunset.” Ivy shared, “He would always do handprints, like make out handprints on paper. And he would put his and my mom's, then me, then my middle sister, then my little sister, then sometimes my uncle too.”

Tiani found working with the children inspiring, saying, “It was a lot of fun. I loved working with these students. I feel like children who have been through something so tough gave me a lot of inspiration to look at life on the bright side.”

As Sarah Andrus, former Collier County Director for Valerie’s House, noted, “Children will paint or draw things that they won't just come out and talk about. A paintbrush in a child’s hand can open the door to conversations about their memories and hopes.”

This artwork is more than just a collection of paintings—it’s a testament to the resilience and hope of our children. We extend our heartfelt thanks to United Arts Collier and the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples for their support in making this healing experience possible.

Please note that this art exhibit won’t be up forever. Staff at the museum have explained that the display will likely remain up through the end of 2024. We encourage you to visit the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples and experience this moving display while it remains on view. At Valerie’s House, we continue to be a place where children can express their grief and find hope for the future.