In the halls of Mercy House, art on the walls is what makes the guests feel at home. One local artist is making sure the walls have a message through her art.
- Local artist Juliee Gonzalez paints Mercy House to make it lively for the unhoused.
- Art has a positive impact on mental health in vulnerable situations.
- Juliee Gonzalez, a former shelter resident, wanted to bring hope and dignity to the guests.
BROADCAST TRANSCRIPT:
“With each different mural, we were able to bring certain emotions based on the room itself.”
Juliee Gonzalez started doing art professionally during the pandemic.
She says whether it’s a sketch on a piece of paper or painting on a canvas, she’s been an artist all her life.
“Breaking away from your entrapment that we can always feel in regards to our circumstances.”
And this project hits a little close to home, as she’s experienced a time in her life living in shelters herself.
“When I had my experience I wished I had seen a lot more artwork in the facility.”