WPS hosts addiction recovery art project representatives

Worcester Preparatory School recently hosted representatives from the Art League of Ocean City, Md., who presented Stigma Highlighted: Portraits of Recovery.

The project uses artwork and personal stories to address how negativity can be directed toward individuals battling addiction. Sponsoring organizations are the Giving Spirit Foundation, Worcester County Health Department, Worcester Goes Purple, Talbot Goes Purple and the art league.

Local artists, including WPS junior Izzy Huber, created portraits influenced by their stories of 12 Maryland survivors in various stages of recovery. The artists personally met with the individuals, listened to their journeys and interpreted them in hand-painted portraits. The artists also wrote accounts of their interactions with their subjects, writing how the experiences personally affected them.

Izzy met with Brandon O’Brien, owner of Douglas K. Hamilton House for Recovery, whom she describes as one of the most down-to-earth, humble people she has ever met.

“His story inspired me in many ways, but one of the most striking things was his determination and ability to face his fears,” Izzy wrote. “Since beginning his journey away from addiction, Brandon has flourished. It was a great honor meeting him, and seeing how his hard work paid off. I was able to visit his very own recovery house, which he opened to serve his community, in the same way he was given help when he needed it most.”

To learn more, go to StigmaHighlighted.com.