How does The Garage empower gifted artists to realise their dreams?
The Garage is the only school of its kind in Israel enabling talented young artists facing mental health challenges to find their place in the world. With a careful balance between emotional support and high level professional teaching, The Garage’s students develop the tools to lead a healthy, happy and productive life.
During the year-long programme, students can study Music, Art & Design and Media & Writing. They also develop their understanding of moral and social issues and learn to prepare portfolios, accept criticism, and handle interviews and examinations. They are guided throughout by a team of social workers who support their physical and emotional wellbeing.
After graduation, The Garage remains in constant contact with its students through its Mentor Programme which provides tailored workshops to ensure they can cope with every day challenges and successfully integrate into further education or the workforce.
Over half of The Garage’s graduates are already enrolled in leading art and music schools, developing their talents and planting the seeds for successful future careers.
Every story matters
MEET SOFIA
Sofia struggled with post-traumatic disorders and depression from an early age. She showed a huge amount of artistic talent at school but stopped painting due to a series of hospitalisations.
She first learned about The Garage from her therapist whilst in hospital and once she was discharged, she joined their pre-academic preparatory programme. She embraced every learning opportunity and developed her artistic skills at an impressive pace. The waves of depression which had taken hold over the years slowly receded as her art became part of the healing process and a way of safely expressing herself.
After completing The Garage’s programme, Sophia was accepted into a four-year course at Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design and throughout her time there, she continued to receive artistic guidance as part of The Garage’s alumni support programme.
Last summer, Sofia graduated from Bezalel with honours and today, she continues to paint and exhibit her work while managing a meeting place for girls at-risk who have suffered sexual assault. As part of her work she guides, supports and empowers the girls while being mentored by The Garage’s professional development team.
