Art & Poetry Showcase 2024: An Interview with Winner Steve Lawson
Welcome back to our series celebrating the winners and runners-up of the 2024 Art & Poetry Showcase. This annual event highlights the transformative power of creativity, with this year’s theme, “Personal Journey,” inspiring incredible works of art and poetry.
In this post, we speak with Steve Lawson, the winner of the art category, whose piece reflects his recovery journey and offers a message of hope and determination.
What inspired you to create the piece you submitted, and how does it reflect your personal journey?
I was inspired to create my piece by my time on the SHARP program. One of my weekly goals was to paint a picture, taking me well out of comfort zone. I not only managed to produce something, but I enjoyed it. My paintings followed a similar scene. Me staring at the distance night sky, looking for some light, amongst the vast darkness. A reflection of my recovery journey I suppose.
How has engaging in art impacted your mental health? Were there specific transformative moments?
Engagement in art has played a major role in my recovery, and my mental health, my form of mindfulness. I have had a lot of support from family and friends , some providing me with canvases and paints, some more than willing to tell me if any one piece is worthy of space on the wall, or placed in the cupboard under the stairs. I must admit, I am running out of room in the cupboard.
What role has community played in your journey?
Being part of Essex Recovery Foundation Community has played a big part of my recovery journey, not just the workforce and volunteers, but the amazing people who attended the recovery spaces and walk and talks , the recovery festivals, amazing people who have become amazing friends. Today I am on the road to being the very best version of myself, and I like that.
If someone struggling with addiction were to view your work, what message or feeling would you hope they take away from it?
If someone was to view my piece, look for the light, the colour within the dullness. But remember, you have to put the work in to find the light and colour. It will not just come to you. I have learned that in recovery you have to be open, honest, get out of your comfort zone.
Steve’s journey is a testament to the healing power of creativity and the importance of community. His art offers a message of hope, resilience, and the belief that brighter days are always possible.
Stay tuned for the next feature in our Art & Poetry Showcase series, where we’ll meet another talented participant and share their inspiring story.
