Healing Together: The Artwork of TIERRA
April 12 – May 3, 2026
Healing Together: The Artwork of TIERRA features artwork created by facilitators of and participants in the TIERRA program—Transforming Internal Experiences for Resilience and Restoration through Acceptance—a research-informed, nature-based training program that supports Community Health Workers serving communities across Lake County, Illinois.
TIERRA equips Community Health Workers with tools to address the interconnected challenges of trauma, health disparities, and environmental injustice. Rooted in mindfulness, restorative practices, and the healing presence of nature, the program creates space for participants to explore their own experiences while strengthening their capacity to care for others.
Through visual art, reflection, and creative expression, participants in this program have translated their personal and professional journeys into powerful works that speak to resilience, healing, and connection to the land. The pieces on display offer insight into the inner landscapes of those working at the front lines of community health. These are individuals who navigate complex social and environmental challenges while supporting the wellbeing of others.
Created during guided sessions that integrated nature observation, contemplative practice, and artistic exploration, the artworks reflect themes of renewal, rootedness, and collective care. Plants, seasonal cycles, and the natural rhythms of the landscape serve as both inspiration and metaphor for growth and restoration. This exhibition was created thanks to artistic instruction from Nydia Gonzalez-Carson.
By sharing these works with the public, the exhibition honors the vital role Community Health Workers play in building healthier, more equitable communities.
Exhibition Materials
View the Exhibition Guide to learn more about the artwork and artists. (en español aquí)
Artists
Veronica Avila,Yenny Avila, Andrea Barba, Amelia Bustamante, Miguel A Camacho, Judy Carbajal, Nydia González Carson, Mariana Garrido, Laura Gaytán, Dulce A Gonzalez, Viri Gonzalez, Gina Guadarrama, Fabiola Hernandez, Aurora Iglesias, Florencia Izoteco, Stephanie Jimenez, Ana Martinez de Juares, Laura Lara, Regla Lemus, Veronica Elizabeth Mena, Iman Myers, Karina Ochoa, Miriam D Gonzalez Pavon, Claudia Garcia Rivera, Esmeralda Rivera, Jess Rodriguez, Jorge Rosales, Maria Luisa Rosales, Esperanza Tellez, Mario Tellez, Doris Torres, Oralia Vergara, Sally Willis, Jessica Zewiske, Monica Zohar
Exhibition Events
Opening Reception
April 12, 2026
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods
