GREENFIELD, NH – The arts make us feel better. Literally. At Crotched Mountain, the visual and performing arts have always been a large part of every resident's life. From dance to watercolor, weaving to music, the arts are an ongoing focus in our school, in after school activities and in therapeutic recreation for our adult residents.

When The Healing Arts: New Pathways to Health, an initiative of the Vermont Arts Exchange, the Massachusetts Cultural Council and the New Hampshire State Council on the Arts (funded by Jane's Trust and The Kenneth B. Schwartz Center) went looking for a primary site in New Hampshire, Crotched Mountain was their unanimous choice.

Over the next two years with a matching grant from the Healing Arts initiative, Crotched Mountain will host a series of artists in residence, substantially expanding its arts offerings and hands-on experiences for residents of all ages.

This summer's pilot program brought drumming with percussionist Michael Wingfield of Portland, ME, exploring the songs and rhythms of the New African World. Kite building, decorating and flying workshops were led by master kite maker and educator Archie Stewart, of the Boston area. Later on, Emile Birch of Canaan, NH, will lead students in the creation of a large kinetic sculpture based on the theme of flight.

Residents who often feel isolated in large groups were drawn into the design and decoration of their kites. Kids who have difficulty focusing, were able to follow the directions for dancing, singing or drumming. Two boys who have very short attention spans were able to sit and enjoy the entire fire circle. "They couldn't stop talking about it," according to their program manager.

Archie Stewart, will return to Crotched Mountain on September 9th, joined by members of Kites Over New England, an American Kitefliers Association affiliated club (www.kone.org). They will be conducting a demonstration, open to the general public, which will include kite design, building and flying; the principals of flight; and the relationship of kites to the environment.

"In the coming year, we look forward to hosting new and returning artists who will lead us in experiencing art as an exciting part of life for everyone," explains Deborah DeCicco, who is the coordinator for the Healing Arts initiative programs at Crotched Mountain. "We will explore some mediums that are brand new to us and others that are old favorites. Dance, music, fiber, poetry, film and sculpture with master artists from across New England will be part of what we offer our clients and staff."

Crotched Mountain is a charitable organization employing more than 900 people. Its mission is to serve individuals with disabilities and their families, embracing personal choice and development, and building communities of mutual support. Crotched Mountain provides specialized education, rehabilitation, community, and residential support services for more than 2,000 consumers, including individuals with disabilities and the elderly, living in New England and New York. For more information about Crotched Mountain please visit their web site: www.crotchedmountain.org

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