When individuals and communities are given opportunities to reimagine beauty in the midst of what may feel broken, we have the potential to collectively encounter hope, purpose and courage to move forward together. As light pours through repurposed stained-glass fragments in these mosaic pieces created by youth experiencing homelessness, we catch a glimpse of the strengths and potential that lie within each of these individuals. We witness words and images of what these youth “bring to the table,” pointing to the healing power of art and the inherent value of all parts of our community.

In this exhibit, “Gifts I Bring to the Table," the Creative Connections Program partnered with Hosea Youth Services to offer therapeutic art opportunities to unhoused youth. These youth were invited to reflect on personal strengths and create stained-glass mosaic art pieces as well as a collaborative stained-glass mosaic tabletop to convey these strengths and show how they have the ability to enhance and positively affect lives around them. After this exhibit, the tabletop will be attached to a table and given to Hosea Youth Services. This will provide a visual reminder of the power of the youths’ gifts as they are brought to the table in community.