Local nonprofit HUE hosts ‘Art from the Heart’ event to empower young artists
Triton Notary
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ)– A Bend nonprofit is giving young artists a chance to shine, and heal, through art and music.
Hearts Unknown Education, or HUE, is hosting its ‘Art from the Heart’ showcase Friday at its studio on Franklin Avenue and 2nd Street. The event runs from 5p.m. to 9 p.m. and features live music, food, and artwork created by students in HUE’s after-school program.
The program helps young people use creativity as an outlet for emotional struggles, combining art, music, and mental wellness practices to support self-expression and confidence.
Founder Nico Carpinelli calls HUE “an artist Disneyland,” saying the organization provides a wide range of creative experiences for its students.
Carpinelli told KTVZ news “We’re basically an artist Disneyland, kids are painting, doing photography, playing instruments, working with clay, all kinds of art forms to express what’s going on inside them. These kids are struggling and they need a way to get what’s (in their heart) and put it (on a canvas).”
Mental Health Director Maya Heck says that the creative process often gives children a voice when words fall short telling KTVZ news “For young children and adolescents, expressing difficult emotions verbally can be very challenging, art allows a channel for those emotions that might otherwise stay bottled up.”
Visitors can explore the studio, meet the young artists, and see firsthand how creativity can support mental well-being. Prints made by HUE participants will be available for $20 apiece. Tickets are also $20, available online or at the door.