Our Press

Founded by trauma survivor Laura Sharpe in 2011, AFT was inspired by her personal journey to recovery, in which Sharpe connected with the world of art as a source of healing from her near-mortal wounds.

Creativity. Connectivity. Community.

successful artist

Testimonials

“Seeing this transformative experience firsthand was really incredible and such a satisfaction to be able to help.”
- Ki
“The experience that AFT provides to artists and survivors is tremendously rewarding for both parties.”
- Etan
“The whole experience was deeply moving and I am grateful to Lauree and Ford for their generous and loving spirits.”
- Bruce

@artistsfortrauma on Instagram

Our deep appreciation to @calrehabfoundation, the

Our deep appreciation to @calrehabfoundation, the California Rehabilitation Institute team and @musekits for working with @artistsfortrauma last week to facilitate one of our signature adaptive, multimedia painting workshops for patients during #2024LAMarathon Spirit Week.

“Painted Toes” was led by artists Laura Sharpe, helicopter crash survivor and founder of Artists For Trauma, Aaron Baker, a thriving, recovering quadriplegic, adaptive athlete and published author, along with Aaron’s mother, former caregiver and also published author, Laquita Dian. The trio of artists engaged with staff and patients in their innovative approach, creating an arts studio atmosphere that fostered a safe space for sharing through compassion and art.

Aaron read from one of his best-selling books explaining how he used unconventional methods to reconnect to his body after a spinal cord injury with the purpose of promoting recovery to the newly injured just learning to navigate their own circumstances.

Laura gently guided and encouraged patients to engage with a variety of art tools and mediums, A supportive resource swag bag of art supplies along with two of Aaron’s books were gifted to the patients.

#AFT team of Laura, Aaron and Laquita, appreciate the opportunity to connect with patients through genuine collaboration and interaction, ultimately making a positive difference in the lives of those we serve.

TRUST that THERE ARE infinite possibilities for quality recovery following life altering trauma.

As shared by Maneshka Cohen, OTR/L, Executive Director of #calrehabfoundation, “I had the privilege of witnessing the value of this experience firsthand, and am truly grateful. We are lucky to have community collaborators who have the capacity to touch our patients in their recovery journey through the innovative and transformative medium of art.”

The “Painted Toes” and Adaptive Multimedia Painting Workshop was a success had by all!

Amazed at the amount of FELLOW TRAVELERS included

Amazed at the amount of FELLOW TRAVELERS included in the new exhibit SHINING A LIGHT that features Women In Sports at the @alicenterlou Thank You KJ Martin for the hospitality. #artistsfortrauma #alicenterlou #espn #womeninsports

Sending a love tap to our friends and partners Bre

Sending a love tap to our friends and partners Brenda and Reed at @getmusekits we truly appreciate your dedication to service and helping others find art a bright and safe place to play and heal. Thank you for your continued support of the Artists For Trauma mission. Special Thanks to @alliemerrickmcguire and the @awarenowmedia team for highlighting this wonderfully creative and giving team. #getmusekits #artistsfortrauma #dannywimmerpresents

🎉 Exciting News Alert! 🎨 Join us THIS Friday

🎉 Exciting News Alert! 🎨 Join us THIS Friday, March 1 at 10:30 AM for the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at Lou Rae, the newest art gallery and event space in town! 🎀✨ We’re thrilled to celebrate this milestone following their Grand Opening on 12/31/23!

🌟 At Artists for Trauma, we’re beyond grateful to have found such an incredible partner in Lou Rae, becoming their preferred charity. Their dedication to Creativity, Connectivity, and Community perfectly aligns with our vision and mission. Together, we’re working to make a difference!

👏 Let’s come together to support the arts and empowered healing. See you there! #LouRae #GrandOpening #ArtistsForTrauma #Creativity #Connectivity #Community 🖌️🤝🏼🎨

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Shepard Fairey aka @obeygiant grate

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Shepard Fairey aka @obeygiant grateful to have had the numerous intersections this past year. Friendship and respect always. Thank you for all you do for the people. Truly authentic inspiration. #obeygiant #artistsfortrauma #fellowtraveler

Stopped by the @alicenterlou and was surprised and

Stopped by the @alicenterlou and was surprised and grateful top see they added the @obeygiant 7story mural of @muhammadali located on the @chestnutstreetymca to their trolly tour of Louisville KY.