The DIA has partnered with CARE of Southeast Michigan for several years as part of its Community Group Program, experiencing art in the galleries and making their own art projects both at the museum and CARE’s facilities in Fraser.

When the spring 2020 DIA visit had to be postponed, studio staff and CARE recovery coaches worked to create an online experience instead. Over the course of three online video sessions, participants discussed paintings and photographs from the DIA collection, and created mixed media masks with materials from around the house. The artwork created during these sessions often represents the change in their lives from addiction to recovery. 

“This program has been so inspiring. I never thought art would be so helpful to my recovery.” noted one participant, who added he can’t wait until the museum is finally open again to come see it in person. Mark Kilgore, CARE Program Coordinator added “It’s always a pleasure working with the folks at the DIA. I find it to be very helpful for those in recovery to expand their activities to give them a little fun in their recovery process. I look forward to our next project”