The Transformative Impact of the Arts

Art is more than just an expression—it is a powerful force for connection, healing, and transformation. The STASH 3 project, led by the Arts Council of Johnson County in collaboration with artist Justin Border, is a perfect example of how creativity can bridge isolation, spark inspiration, and foster a sense of belonging.

Creativity as a Catalyst At its core, STASH 3 was designed to challenge artists by providing them with a curated set of materials and inviting them to respond creatively. This seemingly simple act—working with found objects—became a means for artists to push their creative limits. Many participants described the experience as an “explosion of creative energy,” rekindling their passion for making art and encouraging experimentation with new techniques.

In a time when the pressures of productivity often weigh heavily on artists, STASH 3 offered a refreshing opportunity to create freely, without expectation. This speaks to a larger truth about the arts: creativity flourishes when given space and support.

Building Community Through Art One of the most profound impacts of the project was its ability to foster connection. The structured challenge of working with shared materials, combined with the opportunity to exhibit and discuss their work, allowed participants to feel seen and valued within a larger creative network.

Artists reflected on the importance of knowing they weren’t alone in their process, and many shared that STASH 3 was one of the first times they had truly felt part of an artistic community. The simple act of creating alongside others—even in different locations—reminded them that art has a unique way of forging relationships, regardless of background or experience level.

Art as a Tool for Healing The intersection of art and mental health was a key theme in STASH 3, culminating in a panel discussion with artists and mental health professionals. Many participants noted how the act of making art helped them process emotions, especially in the wake of the pandemic.

This echoes a broader understanding of the arts as a form of therapy. Whether through personal reflection, community engagement, or simply the joy of creation, artistic expression has the power to support mental well-being in ways that words often cannot.

Looking Forward The success of STASH 3 has sparked a new initiative: Canvas Collective, a program rooted in art therapy. This evolution underscores a vital truth—when we invest in the arts, we invest in people. Art builds community, strengthens mental health, and empowers individuals to see the world (and themselves) in new ways.

This is why we do what we do. Because art matters. Because creativity is essential. And because projects like STASH 3 remind us that through the simple act of making, we can transform not only materials but also lives.

Read the full Executive Summary on the STASH3 Project here.