<div>Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, I've been volunteering with PPSC's Refugee Support Program to provide psychological support for Ukrainian refugees impacted by the war.
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<div>Over time, I noticed similar themes of isolation and helplessness emerge as people were having difficulty coping with the traumatic events of the war.
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<div>I wondered what I could do to help them adjust to the new circumstances of their lives and came up with the idea to host a pottery workshop and support group at a local ceramics studio.
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<div>I was amazed by the feedback that I received from participants about the impact that workshop had on them. Here are a few excerpts from statements that people wrote about their experience (shared with their permission):
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<div>"I attended Alexander’s pottery masterclass, and it became a true turning point for me. Since the beginning of the war, I’ve gone through many difficult events that have affected my health and mental well-being. But during the class, with Alexander’s guidance, I was creating my first pieces with my own hands. We laughed, joked, and shared stories, and for the first time in a long while, I felt joy return to my life. On the way home, I felt euphoric, as if a weight had been lifted off my shoulders; the tension that had gripped my throat for years was finally gone. This sense of freedom gave me the strength to make changes and enter a new chapter. "
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<div>"Alexander's masterclass demonstrated how art can not only inspire, but also heal. It is a powerful tool for finding inner balance, self-expression and hope in difficult times. Thanks to Alexander's master class, my husband and I had a wonderful experience and maximum pleasure."
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<div>Hearing words like these further inspired me to create this fundraiser in order to sponsor arts scholarships for Ukrainian refugees in the greater NYC region. I believe in the transformative and healing power of art. I'm hoping these scholarships will give refugees a chance to find meaning and resilience through creative expression. I've partnered with local institutions like <a href="https://centerforbookarts.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center for Book Arts</a> and <a href="https://www.artstudentsleague.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Art Students League</a> who are committed to expanding opportunities and building community.
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<div>I'll be participating in a <a href="https://www.doclaynyc.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">holiday sale</a> over the weekend of 12/20 to sell my pottery and get the ball rolling on raising funds. Please stop by for a chance to get some last minute holiday gifts and support a great cause!
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<div>A little about me, I'm a <a href="https://seealexanderbeznes.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">psychotherapist</a> based in Flatiron and have been doing <a href="https://www.instagram.com/swampyceramics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pottery</a> on the side since 2016.
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Juliet Heeg

Anonymous

Alexander Beznes

Alejandro Vera

Rima Rabbath

Liliana Lacayo

Ian Garrett

Katie Kalupson

Hsiao Tung Ho

Ying Lin

yuliya golubev

Leticia Cruz

Nicholas Stevens

Aliza Septimus

Christopher Lorraine

Phuong Nguyen

Haley Siegel

Art Scholarships for Ukrainian Refugees

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