11/04/2026
In recognition of , we're spotlighting Kana R. ( ) and her creative Gold Award project, Art for the Heart: Mindful Masterpieces for Emotional Wellbeing 🎨💚
Kana recognized that many people can benefit from art therapy, but barriers like cost, location, and limited awareness often make these resources difficult to access. She wanted to create a way for more people to explore creative outlets that support emotional wellbeing, stress management, and self-expression.
To make art therapy more accessible, Kana developed a free multimedia platform featuring a website, Instagram account, YouTube channel, and illustrated tutorial book. Together, these resources provide more than 30 self-guided art activities using painting, drawing, sculpture, collage, and mixed media. Working alongside professional artists and professors from Florida Atlantic University, Kana also led workshops for students in Broward County and Jamaica, reaching more than 180 participants. Each activity combined creative expression with social-emotional learning skills, helping participants build confidence, manage stress, and develop healthy coping strategies through art 🖌️✨
