The Healing Arts Project, Inc – HAPI – provides an avenue for persons in mental health and addiction recovery to express their creativity through a wide range of artistic endeavors.  In this way we raise awareness in the community and help combat stigma about these disorders, thus promoting understanding, acceptance, and success.

HAPI has been supporting the creative arts for persons in mental health and addiction recovery since 2004.

Art classes and art materials are supported by grants and provide a creative outlet for over 300 individuals in mental health and addiction recovery in Middle Tennessee. Art classes are taught by professional artists at mental health peer support centers. Funding partners include the Tennessee Arts Commission, the Metro Nashville Arts Commission, the Memorial Foundation, United Healthcare Community Plan, and the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee.  Volunteers from Hands on Nashville and other individuals donate services and art materials.

HAPI exhibits artworks in community sites including public libraries, galleries and churches.  The opportunity to show their artwork in public increases the self-esteem and self-confidence of the artists.  They are seen as persons with abilities and talent, not with disabilities. Check our calendar of events for schedules.