The Emerald Sketch Art Therapy and Ben’s Lighthouse are joining forces to bring the artistic and creative talents of Newtown’s young people to Hartford.

On Saturday, November 23, children and youth of all ages are invited to the Glover Undercroft at Trinity Episcopal Church to help create sculptures and other artwork for an exhibit to be displayed at the state capitol in Hartford during the remembrances 12/14. The focus of the activities and the exhibit will be on community safety and social connection.

Under the skilled leadership and tutelage of The Emerald Sketch’s art therapists and Ben’s Lighthouse volunteers, children will work together on bright, vibrant creations that reinforce positive imagery to each of the children while demonstrating the strength and resiliency of the Newtown community.

The art creation will take place from 10 am to 3 pm. Children, along with parent or guardian, are welcome for all or any part of that time.

Children will participate in the creation of a brightly decorated “human-sized” nest, a painted canvas lighthouse, a safe-place mural, a road “paved” with footprints, and other group and individual projects.

Sandwiches and snacks will be provided at no charge. Participation is free and open to Newtown-area children of all ages. High school and middle school aged youth are welcome and encouraged to participate in the artwork and, if they wish, to help work with the younger children.

The church is at 36 Main Street. Best access is from the driveway off Church Hill Road, however, with entry to the undercroft available off the church driveway.

“Safe Places,” The Exhibition

On Friday, December 13, Connecticut dignitaries, invited guests, and the general public will have the opportunity to view the exhibit. “Safe Places” will be on view in The Hall of Flags and North Lobby of the State Capitol Building, 210 Capitol Avenue, from 10 am until 9 pm.

Tours of the Capitol Building will be offered at 11:30 am, and 12:30 and 1:30 pm. Refreshments will be served.

A reception will be held from 6 to 9 pm, and will include drinks and hors d’oeuvres and music. Reservations are requested for the reception and can be done online.

The Emerald Sketch, LLCis committed to providing ongoing art therapy by credentialed professionals, in a safe environment, to Sandy Hook School students and their families, its faculty and staff, first responders, and the Newtown community.

Ben’s Lighthouse for Newtown’s Children supports the healing of Newtown’s children and youth in a safe, nonviolent environment through community-building events, outreach activities, and workshops to build resilience, social skills, and coping strategies.