The MissionChange a Heart & You Can Change the World
The mission of heArt studios is to break the generational cycle of abuse and trauma by transforming the heart by finding healing through creative and expressive therapy.
Our goal is to build a state of the art, multi-purpose venue that offers various genres of fine art outlets where survivors will have safer means to share their stories in ways that resonate with their individual heart health, and we are currently raising funds to do so.
It literally brought tears to my eyes thinking about how something like this could have helped our foster children, especially the teenagers. This makes my heart happy.NICOLE V., FOSTER PARENT
The Problem
Did you know that one in four women will be a victim of domestic violence in her lifetime? In addition, 15.5 million children witness domestic violence each year. Those children are at serious risk for long-term physical and mental health problems and may also be at greater risk of being violent in their future relationships. Traditional therapy can at times trigger damaging consequences for survivors having to relive their story.
We exist to enhance the experience of traditional therapy through the arts.
The Solution
Through the act of creation, a child can explore kinesthetic, sensory, perceptual, and symbolic opportunities to express themselves. Our goal is to give a voice to those who've been silenced by trauma, empowering an individual to transform their perception of whatever challenges they’re struggling with.
Sessions will be taught in a specific genre that speaks to each child individually. Our hope is to not only provide a safe space for them emotionally, but broaden their creative talents scholastically, and even professionally. Through collaborations with professional artists in various fields, survivors are empowered and encouraged to build a bright future within the fine Arts.
How You Can Help
We are on an ambitious plan to secure capital for our building and fitting overhaul, and we need operational funding to continue with our mission. We are partnering with appropriate companies, artists, and individuals to make this a successful launch for heArt studios in near future!
Today, we are boldly asking for a substantial donation to jumpstart this initiative.
We Can't Do This Without You!
The VisionArt Transforms the HeArt
When the studios are complete, they will include the following spaces:
Photography
Learn the art of photography with amazing professionals that have a heArt for teaching their passion.Film
Survivors will learn to create, capture, and edit their visions by bringing them to life through the power of film.Music
Learn from the best how a song is written, recorded and put out to the world to heal hearts and minds.Visual Art
Painting and drawing have been therapeutic remedies for ages. Our space will allow imaginations to run free with mediums of all kinds.Fashion
From everyday wear to formalwear, we will have a space dedicated to creating beautiful designs that can be worn on the street or the red carpet.Performance Art
Dancing, acting, and any other performance that a stage can hold will be taught by amazingly talented instructors within the industry.Floral Design
There are a variety of healing properties in the art of floral design and creation. Arrangements will be made on site for purchase to the public.Health & Wellness
Mindfulness, meditation, and yoga are incredible tools to aid in healing. This space will be the perfect oasis to reflect and relax.The PeopleApply To Be A Partner
Meet the team behind the scenes
Amanda Herdina
FOUNDER
Amanda has experienced firsthand how the Arts can transform the heart in a child who has been impacted by abuse and trauma. heArt studios has been her passion project for as long as she can remember and she is extremely excited to bring a safe, creative space to those who need a place to heal.
Angela Cieslewicz
BOARD MEMBER
As a seasoned certified public accountant, Angela now enjoys the full time role of mom. She is thrilled to be a part of heArt studios & see first hand how we promote healing and spark joy for children in need. She's most excited about the dance studio as she danced growing up!
John Murphy
BOARD MEMBER
John Murphy began his career as a Fashion Stylist after moving to Nashville in 1997. He also began studying energy work in 2014 as a treatment for his own addictive behaviors. John uses various kinds of energy work that allow people to look at themselves and their lives in a new light.
Allison Cantway
BOARD MEMBER
Allison graduated from Yale University with a double major in English and Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. She has worked in the field of interpersonal violence at both the YWCA Nashville's Weaver Domestic Violence Center and the Nashville Family Safety Center.
Cheryl Brehm
BOARD MEMBER
Fifteen years ago Cheryl started her teaching career as a middle school science teacher and volleyball coach. Upon earning a Master’s Degree in Education, she became a university instructor for Liberty University and has worked with diverse students of all ages around the globe.
Lindsay Lawler
BOARD MEMBER
Lindsay is a Nashville based entertainer, songwriter & entrepreneur. She manages the Nashville Music Loft, & owns Nashville Bachelorettes, which provides VIP itineraries for those visiting Nashville. She is an adoption advocate, & is thrilled to be on the board of heArt Studios.
The GoalHealing Hearts Begins with You!
Are you a business looking to partner and give back? Help us reach our $3,000,000 milestone by NEW YEAR’S EVE!
Donate today.
Spread the word.
Continue to support us!
Your contributions both financially and socially will jumpstart our operations and fast track us to securing our building. Won’t it be exciting to watch the ball drop AND reach our $3,000,000 goal this year?