We had a busy-but-beautiful week here at common art and Boston Warm!  On Wednesday, I led the first rehearsal for Richie’s Easter play, “The Death of Jesus”. We did a few read-throughs of the script. On the second read-through I encouraged the cast to try their lines in a different tone and see how it would feel. Richie’s plays often have a lot of sarcasm and humor, so I especially invited the cast to read their lines in more sassy/dramatic voices. This went really well as folks seemed to get a little more in-touch with their characters and the flow of the script. This upcoming week, we will have our second rehearsal, when we will stage the scenes and practice our stage presence!

After the play rehearsal, we had our second session of the caretaker art group. The art activity I planned for the session was inspired by a piece one of our group members made at common art a few weeks ago titled, “What’s in my heart”. The piece consisted of illustrated symbols and images that are important or meaningful to him, such as: books, art supplies, playing cards, a horseshoe for luck, and the initials of his children. The goal of this group is to help caretaking members shift some of their care, compassion, and attention back towards themselves, so I knew that I wanted to plan a self-portrait/self-exploration activity for the group. I loved this member’s take on a self-portrait, so I asked him if I could model the activity after his work and if he would be willing to present his piece and explain his process to the group as an introduction to the project. He seemed very touched to have a group activity inspired by his work and seemed to feel proud of his creativity. While I wish we had a little more time for the activity, the group really dove into examining the different symbols that are a part of their identity!

The Boston Common is getting green, and flowers are starting to pop up, so spring is within reach! Have a good week everyone!

–Alex Shoemaker