Artists Recovering through the Twelve Steps

When I came into A.R.T.S. my guitar (the thing I love most in the world) was under my bed. I was shut down and lost in my perfectionism. Now I have a band, I go to open mics and open jams and do gigs. A.R.T.S. gave me my life back! 

– Don T., A.R.T.S. member since 1992 from Brooklyn NY. 

When I came back to A.R.T.S. Anonymous almost two years ago, my Higher Power showed me that for the most part, intense shame was causing my avoidance to being creative.  The key to me becoming more creative has mostly come from my focus on the love of God for me.  The more I allow my Higher Power to love me, the more creative I am becoming.  Thank you A.R.T.S. Anonymous!

– Sharon G., A.R.T.S. member since 2021. Writer, dollmaker, knitter, painter/drawer.

I connected with an art buddy through a zoom when I just joined. She got me painting each day, which got me out of a deep gloom. Another member got me to put up a website of my art, which led to sales.

– Batya W., A.R.T.S. member since 2021 from the U.S. Musician, writer and visual artist.

Prior to participating in A.R.T.S. Anonymous, the greatest bane to my art practice was isolation, which amplified my doubts, fears, and self-criticisms as an artist and anchored long fallow periods in my creativity. Working the steps in A.R.T.S. and using the tools keeps isolation at bay by connecting me to a wonderful community of fellow artists with whom I give and receive encouragement, healing, and inspiration. As a result, my creativity and my life are flourishing and I experience a deep sense of happiness and fulfillment. Thank you, A.R.T.S. Anonymous for these gifts!

– Nova, A.R.T.S. member since 2018. Multidisciplinary artist.

I have discovered the poet in me. I was afraid to meet other artists and had concurrent fears. Today I enjoy seeing, hearing and talking to them. I am learning to do art for myself first and the motivation to do art has increased.

– AL, A.R.T.S. member from Switzerland since 2022. Artist, poet, writer, photographer and soul singer.

For my entire adult life, I could never bring myself to identify as an “artist.”  I believed that category was reserved for others who “deserved” that designation — not me!  But by regularly attending meetings and going through the 12 Steps with a sponsored group, I have learned to fully accept and embrace my identity as an artist and creative person.  This shift has made a profound difference in my personal and professional life and to my attitude towards life in general. Thank you, A.R.T.S.! 

– Jonathan F., A.R.T.S. member since 2016 from New York City. Musician, teacher, writer.

I came to A.R.T.S. in the late 80’s, I wanted so badly to sing and share my music, but I couldn’t. I cried for months at meetings until I finally started singing my songs and eventually performing in NYC clubs.  I’ve released three CD’s and I continue to write and perform my music.  I’m extremely grateful for Abby and ARTS. 

– Val G., Singer/songwriter.

I came to A.R.T.S. when I was pursuing an acting career. Through attending meetings and step work I realized that my true calling is to be a voice teacher and writer. I am now thriving financially, artistically, socially and spiritually!  

– Gabriel W., A.R.T.S. member since 2018 from the Dominican Republic and NYC. Gifted teacher, writer, singer and lover!

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