ART AS MEDICINE. ArtFly's newest exhibit, "Finding Healing", is up for viewing at SHIFT Cyclery & Coffee Bar. (Submitted Photos)

Oftentimes, some of the most beautiful expressions of the human soul come from some of the most trying and challenging experiences in life. This sentiment can most assuredly be applied to that of human artistic expression and it is what ArtFly’s most recent gallery exhibition, “Finding Healing”, hopes to encapsulate and share with the community.

Those attuned to the artistic landscape in Eau Claire are probably familiar with ArtFly, but for those who are not, ArtFly was conceptualized by local artist and instructor Kelsey Wenberg back in 2017. Wenberg seeks to provide opportunities for local artists to showcase their art. These opportunities manifest in the form of pop-up exhibits, free zines, commissioned murals, and much more. 

“We specialize in emerging artists; many of the artists whose work we display are showing their art for the first time – how exciting! For every show, we host a free reception or ArtFly Talk – a time for inviting the artists and public into the venue, to experience the art together, and to learn more about it and each other,” Wenberg said. “ArtFly is the perfect platform for artists to gain experience and grow their resumes while connecting with the community.”

ArtFly’s latest artistic endeavor, “Finding Healing”, is an exploration of the journey undertaken when someone experiences challenging situations and how that individual strives toward healing afterward. “Finding Healing” is displayed at SHIFT Cyclery and Coffee Bar, and features work from several local artists, and is curated by local artist Gabbie Henn.

“Art has always been very healing. Creating something releases many things and can help communicate what we may not understand,” Henn said. “Kelsey and I came together with the theme when she recommended the title ‘elsewhere’ and I recommended ‘healing’. And it all came to ‘Finding Healing’. And I just knew this would be beautiful as art can be a very special place for many people through finding and releasing.”

Henn describes the overall tone of the exhibition to be that of transformation. That theme will be delved into using textures, colors, and shapes and expressed through different mediums such as paintings, sculptures, photography, and through an interactive piece that will be up throughout the show.

Henn and Wenberg hope that this exhibition will be a platform for artists and the community to come together to explore personal and collective journeys and help illuminate connections with each other through art. Henn says, “We are all growing. And that’s the beautiful thing about doing it with the community. It brings more understanding and connection.” 

“Finding Healing” is an ArtFly collaborative exhibition that can be experienced at SHIFT Cyclery and Coffee Bar (615 Graham Ave., Eau Claire, WI 54701) and is ongoing through Sept. 6 with an Art Reception on July 14 from 6:30-8pm. Visit ArtFly’s Facebook page for more information.