We are pleased to present Expressions of Recovery: Work presented

by members of the Gould Farm Community, which opened on January

28. The exhibit features paintings, collage/mixed media works, and

photographs created by current and former program participants.

Accompanying written materials elaborate on the lived experiences

of Gould Farm community members, who are adults with mental

health and related challenges.

Creating art has many therapeutic benefits; sharing creative

activities and enterprises fosters self-confidence and inspires others

in their recovery goals. The exhibit’s organizers believe that this

collaboration between the Knox Gallery, Monterey Library, and

Gould Farm works to reduce the stigma around mental illness by

inviting viewers to see the artists as complex human beings with

many strengths. They further express their desire to “highlight the

creativity, talent, and diversity of the Gould Farm community

beyond the guests’ identities as adults with a mental health

diagnosis.”

Gould Farm resident “guests” are offered diverse

opportunities to aid their recoveries and advance their goals.

Visiting artists and volunteers inspire guests with painting sessions,

pottery instruction, and writing. Some guests pursue creative work

independently. In the summer of 2021, a grant awarded by

Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation’s “Arts Build

Community” initiative, with funding from the Barr Foundation,

allowed Gould Farm to host two visiting artists. The focus of the

first workshop was on handmade books, some of which are

included here.

Expressions of Recovery: Work presented by members of the Gould