Back in the fall, when Residents In Recovery took on the task of housing the workshop for the concrete moulding of the Faces of Lloydminster, it would be hard to fathom how much the the creative journey would affect the lives of the clients who are charting a new path.
A client from Lethbridge may have found a new artistic endeavour via the mentorship of sculptor Mick Classen who says nearly 30 Residents In Recovery clients have been on board with the work.
The task entails making some 17 six-by-four-by-two-foot concrete sculptures that weigh 300-pounds. The faces are then painted by local artists to be displayed around Lloydminster.
Pierce Manyfingers says being involved in the moulding for the public art project fulfills the social part of recovery from addictions.
“In recovery we are trying to get out of certain behaviours and ways of thinking that kept us isolated and trapped in a mentality of sickness. So this is one thing that I’m doing to rebuild myself and become more active and social. And give back. Be of service and useful in some positive way to those around me.”
The Lethbridge resident has been in Lloydminster since January and says he is taking life one day at a time for whereas the life of an addict is one of isolation, for someone in active recovery that journey involves being social. That means getting involved, reaching out and re-integrating into society.
Tyler Lorenz executive director of the recovery centre says they can do a lot of trauma work and other therapeutic pieces, but there is value in the clients getting out of themselves and giving back to the community.
“A project like this is something that unless you are working with Mick – you would probably never have the opportunity to do. This isn’t an everyday art project. This is definitely unique. It not only requires creativity, but it also takes a little bit of workmanship.”
Some of the tasks involved mixing concrete, then using the large moulds and grinding and smoothening the surface before the artists can begin to paint.
Lorenz expressed his thanks to Classen for approaching Residents In Recovery to use their space for the workshop and also giving of his time and insight to the clients.