Art Lives at Unity Church

Art provides another medium through which human beings experience gifts of the spirit.  Response to a work of art may be on intense, profound levels. As with poetry or literature, theatre, dance or music, the visual arts provide meditative and emotional opportunities and appreciation of life's process, our cultures and society. Unity's Art Team serves the congregation by hosting exhibits in our Parish Hall gallery, cataloging and sharing information about Unity's extensive art collection, and inviting the congregation into art appreciation through various events and learning opportunities. For more information about the work of Unity's Art Team, please email artteam@unityunitarian.org.

October Parish Hall Exhibit

All human beings need to be visible and seen and I think that this is the biggest benefit of this program. 
                                                                                — Paige Berg, Clinical Program Therapist, Stillwater Correctional Facility

The thirteen members of the non-profit Art from the Inside (AFTI) work with artists at the Stillwater Correctional Facility and the Shakopee Correctional Facility for Women. AFTI was started by Antonio Espinosa, a retired correctional officer at Stillwater, and Jessica Espinosa, who both see art as a way to “...empower incarcerated artists to experience personal transformation and restoration. We believe art provides the space to imagine new ways of being and to recognize our personal powers to change.” 

The upcoming exhibit at Unity Church is an exciting opportunity for the congregation to appreciate the talent of these artists as well as their personal journeys, and become familiar with the inspiring AFTI program. It is a unique exhibit that matches the values, mission and ends of Unity Church.

On Wednesday, October 4, AFTI leaders will be featured during the Wellspring Wednesday program. They will share the details of their work with time for questions and discussion.  

Grab a brush and Paint with a Purpose on Friday, October 20, in Parish Hall at Unity Church, in support of their first-ever fund-raiser (co-hosted by Unity Church).

“Untitled” by Amanda Peltier

“Family Ties" by Christopher Larson

“More than an Inmate” by Elsa Segura

“Youth” by J. Ives