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“The art process is truly a majestic gateway to the unknown. It is a point of momentary faith where an expansion of thought escaping pathways lead us to a point where space and time seem to escape us… no words are even necessary”-Tessa D’Agostino

The Therapeutic & Expressive Arts Program was created in 2007 to benefit individuals interested in the arts as well as self growth. It is an arts program of studio skill development where the creative process and self-reflection fit hand in hand.

The creative process naturally evokes a meditative state where we can unwind, relax, and slow our thoughts. It allows us to retreat within to express our unique self while creating something beautiful to share with the world around us.

Tessa D’Agostino, local artist and creator of the Inside Art Program, teaches her art classes at a variety of organizations on Cape Cod. She specializes in working with adults living with disabilities and those living with life challenges. Classes are often taught in groups of 7 or more depending on student abilities and circumstance. Tessa brings all supplies and projects on site and leaves no trace behind other than inspired students and inventive artwork.

Tessa prides herself not only in teaching her therapeutic approach but also in challenging her students. As a professional artist with an independent background in healing therapy studies, she has developed a way with her students that elevates their own perspectives and often breaks through self limiting behaviors and/or self talk.

D’Agostino’s classes start with art implementation but also grow into a process of self awareness, capability and talent. These student recognitions motivate individuals to face other challenges outside of class often proving to not only themselves but even supporting staff and family members that they have even more to offer. Many people living with disabilities thrive in and need structure. However, art class allows somewhat of a break from this concept. The class is a structured component to a students schedule, but the art process is unlimited and thrives when control and expectation is let go. This is the creative space of personal development where students often discover capabilities they didn’t necessarily identify with prior. These personal discoveries often lead to that “Ah ha!” moment where a student considers, “If I can do this, what else can I do?!”

“The art process is truly a majestic gateway to the unknown. It is a point of momentary faith where an expansion of thought escaping pathways lead us to a point where space and time seem to escape us. In this suspension we find a sense of inner peace as we travel propelled by the moment. The final result of our creative process is the visual bonus left behind; a gift from the journey. No words are even necessary.” -Tessa D’Agostino