Interview with Amy Leiter, art therapist and founder
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: From a very young age, I had a passion for making art as a way to learn and explore my world. After working as a graphic designer for several years, I discovered I could embrace expression and creativity in the service of children and adolescents. I entered graduate school to train to offer art as a powerful mode for healing. With my master’s degree from Naropa University in counseling and art therapy, I began to work at an after-school program providing art. Through this opportunity, the dream of using art to heal in a big way was realized. This experience ignited a passion, and as a result, our nonprofit organization, Violet Hive Art Therapy and Healing, was founded.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: The value of healing through the powerful modality of art. With the understanding that art is inherently healing, our direction was clear. Through offering workshops, open art studios and therapeutic services, we have a slightly different mission. Our mission is not just focused on allowing children and adults the opportunity to ignite creativity, passion and art education. We hope to provide each participant art-making experiences that are focused on healing.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: The opportunity to help our participants build community, recognize their strengths, overcome challenges and move forward authentically through art and creative expression. It is exciting to see transformation happen during workshops and therapy.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: Our biggest challenge is opening opportunities to share art and how art therapy works. We are working hard to let people know who we are and what we do. Slowly but surely since September, we have been networking and making connections with local businesses and surrounding communities. Moving our business to our new dedicated space may be the key to resolving some of our challenges. Also, look for us to be working with local establishments to partner on future events.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: There are many things that are surprising about our business. The few that come to mind are that we are a nonprofit and that we support artists and community members in teaching workshops based on subjects that they are passionate about. All of the magic will happen at our new location 3107 E. Colfax Ave. in January. We look forward to moving to the Bluebird District and Congress Park neighborhood!
Profile
Business: Violet Hive Art Therapy
Address: In transition; visit violethiveart.org for updates
Hours: By appointment or during workshops
Founded: 2015
Contact: 720-460-1474
Employees: 4
