ARTM is a Portuguese acronym standing for the Associacao de Reabilitacao de Toxicodependentes de Macau, an association which promotes the rehabilitation of drug dependent people in Macau.

In recent years, the arts have been an essential component in the daily life of the ARTM therapeutic community, through different activities and techniques, with a view to promoting the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual healing of patients, allowing their growth throughout the process of individual change. The Rui Cunha Foundation presented the Annual Arts Showcase “People First” last week, displaying paintings and ceramics created by more than 30 participants.

Inspired by the “People First” slogan of the United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, which aims to increase community awareness about accepting people who use drugs and give them the respect and empathy that all human beings deserve. Exhibited artworks included oil and acrylic paintings, and ceramic pieces, many of which include Christmas motifs, to encourage their purchase as gifts for the festive season.

ARTM pointed out that, “For some people in recovery, and for people with different types of mental health problems, engaging with and creating arts can be a key to their changing process.

“Expressive arts has been an important component of ARTM’s therapeutic community daily life, as has vocational training and recreational activities. The results are always satisfactory, and creates a fulfilling sense of accomplishment. It gives us more motivation to continue exploring new ways to create new and beautiful lives together.”