“Sometimes people call me an artist,” explains Jean, “but I’m just good with colors.” Owner of Elinor’s Art and Beads, a local business approaching its 30th anniversary, Jean Post is a devotee of the creative process. “Creative exploration is fun. It gives people that spark and joy in their lives.” In the comfortable workroom behind her retail bead shop and art gallery, Jean joins her talented staff and students in weekly beading classes that inspire artistic expression.
When Jean’s business coach, Mary Parkin, suggested that she forge a creative partnership with a local non-profit, Crossroads for Women was a natural fit. “I come from a long line of strong women who made personal reinvention a way of life. The women at Crossroads are also reinventing themselves, overcoming incredible challenges and transforming their lives despite fear.”
Mary was excited to begin the collaboration, “I spoke with the Resource Development team at Crossroads for Women and described that we wanted to develop something beautiful to create awareness about Crossroads, the women and the issues. Amanda Douglas, Resource Development Coordinator, suggested we consider using the Crossroads emblem, the butterfly, as a way to visually describe the creative process of change…we started there.”
Jess Fulton, Resource Development Assistant and Volunteer Coordinator at Crossroads for Women was excited to offer a unique opportunity where volunteers would learn a new skill but also experience a creative atmosphere of connection. “Beading sessions were fun, full of laughter, encouragement and meaningful conversation.”
Addie Martinez, Maya’s Place participant, created 11 of the 89 butterfly bracelets that will be sold this holiday season. “At first I was skeptical. I didn’t know that I’d be able to do it. But, threading the beads is calming and I get a joyful feeling when I look at the bracelet I created. I feel like I accomplished something.” Addie also modeled for the marketing poster and sent a picture of the poster to “everybody on my phone.” She says, “This is such a big deal. I’m proud to have helped make it happen.” She explains, “the butterfly is meaningful to me because I am transforming right now. I’m becoming a more loving and caring mother, sister and friend. I long for that person to emerge and I am very excited about it.” There may be no worthier point of destination!