For the past 26 years, patients and caregivers have come together once a week at Ridley-Tree Cancer Center for Finding Joy Through Painting, a class that brings joy, comfort and connection to those facing cancer.
Led by local artist Rick Stich, this two-hour class is part of the Cancer Center’s Wellness Program, funded by the Cancer Foundation of Santa Barbara.
While Finding Joy Through Painting is not a formal art therapy class, it gives participants space to reconnect with themselves, channel their creativity, and take a break from the emotional and physical demands of cancer.
On average, 12 patients and caregivers attend the class each week.
“Too many people face cancer in isolation,” said Ken Jewesson, a local artist and avid class participant. “These art classes offer a weekly sanctuary where patients can immerse themselves in creativity rather than dwelling on their diagnosis.”
Stich began teaching through the Wellness Program in 1999 and has been helping local patients heal through creative expression ever since.
“Painting is meditative by nature. This class is about finding a little happiness and camaraderie,” he said.
This fall, for the first time in several years, Ridley-Tree Cancer Center hosted Art Heals – Patient Art Exhibit and Reception, featuring paintings by 20 current and former class participants.
More than 50 community members attended, celebrating the students’ creativity and admiring their art before many of the paintings found new homes on the Cancer Center’s walls.
The Cancer Foundation of Santa Barbara’s continued support makes classes like this possible. In addition to Finding Joy Through Painting, the Wellness Program offers yoga, knitting, a walking group, guided meditation, and the WellFit Exercise, all designed to support patients’ physical and emotional well-being.
Learn more about the Cancer Foundation’s support of local cancer care at www.cfsb.org.
