Join us for Brush Strokes, a moving short documentary by award-winning director Obed Lamy, followed by a therapeutic art workshop. This experience blends storytelling, healing, and creativity, highlighting the true story of Larry Harper, a 75-year-old stroke survivor who reconnects with his lifelong dream of becoming an artist through art therapy. The event includes a film screening, group discussion, and a guided art activity designed to reduce stress and inspire creative expression.

Event Activities:

• Screening of Brush Strokes (9-minute runtime)
• Q&A with Lakisha Bradley with guest speaker Joi McGowan, Licensed Professional Counselor
• Group Breathwork + Art Activity (45 minutes): A guided, therapeutic art session to reduce anxiety and explore creativity for both caregivers and those receiving care

All participants will receive free art materials, with accommodations made for different mobility needs. Attendees are invited to take their artwork home as part of the healing journey. This event is free and open to the public.

Title: Brush Strokes

Running Time: 9:03

Directed by: Obed Lamy

Logline: When a 75-year-old man turns to art therapy to recover from a stroke, he rediscovers his lifelong dream of becoming an artist.

Synopsis:In 2015, Larry Harper experienced a stroke that left him with limited speech and mobility. A retired factory worker, Larry turned to painting as both physical and emotional therapy. Brush Strokes offers an intimate look at his journey of resilience, revealing the often-overlooked power of creative expression in stroke recovery, aging, and reclaiming lost dreams.

About the Director

Obed Lamy is a Haitian journalist and filmmaker whose work explores collective memory, forgotten histories, and community resilience. A Fulbright Scholar and recipient of a Student Emmy, his films have screened nationally and internationally at festivals and institutions including the Smithsonian, the Toronto Black Film Festival, and Crystal Bridges Museum.

This campaign is made possible through generous support from the Mid-America Arts Alliance, Arkansas Soul Media, and our community partners.

For media inquiries, interview requests, or to RSVP, please contact Niketa Reed at niketa@truesoulmedia.org.

Free, tickets required. Reserve your spot online or with the Box Office at (479) 657-2335