For ceramic artist Sarah Johnston, the act of pinching a small ball of clay in her living room marked a turning point—from creative burnout to a mindful, purpose-driven practice. With support from United Arts, Sarah deepened her work through Community Clay Connections, a project that brings hands-on, therapeutic clay experiences to people of all ages and backgrounds.
One of her sculptures, funded by an Individual Artist Grant, was displayed at the Casselberry Library and invited the public to share messages of gratitude—transforming a work of art into a space for reflection. Today, Sarah continues to build meaningful experiences through public classes like Mud and Meditation, as well as through new partnerships.
This spring, Community Clay Connections completed a 15-week in-school residency at a therapeutic school in Lake County, supported by United Arts. Educators saw immediate impact: higher attendance, improved behavior, and growing student enthusiasm.
We’re proud to support artists like Sarah who bring creativity, care, and connection into our communities. And we extend heartfelt congratulations to the graduating class of 2025, who shared their stories, their growth, and their art with us.
