Katie Whysong was a young woman with a big wish: that no one suffer from depression, anxiety, or exclusion alone. Her sweet and quiet demeanor drew people to her. She was also a gifted artist. Katie wanted to use these gifts to support and encourage others.
Katie lost her own battle with depression on March 10, 2021, yet her spirit continues to fight the war. It is in her honor "The Positive Painting Project" was born.
Out of that unspeakable tragedy, a talented, creative, and artistic team assembled and worked together to continue the mission Katie began. With overwhelming community support, The Positive Painting Project started with a simple goal of creating canvases painted and printed with positive messages encouraging mental health awareness. These would be installed in the local schools and around their community to encourage and support students; to remind them that help is available and that they are loved no matter what.
As the project grew, the amazing artists had the idea of creating T-Shirts to support The Positive Painting Project and The Katie Whysong Scholarship for the Arts. Katie's "tag" and the beautiful designs make for a very cool (and popular) shirt!
The shirts are available in a rainbow tie dye to honor Katie's vocal and active support of the LGBTQ+ community. Teal and purple are the colors of the suicide awareness ribbon.
All donations and merchandise sales benefit The Katie Whysong Art for Hope Initiative, which includes The Positive Painting Project and The Katie Whysong Scholarship for the Arts.
Thank you for stopping in and supporting this critical mission: to encourage the conversation, raise awareness of mental health issues, and prevent the tragic consequences that can result.
"Spreading HOPE, one sign at a time."
Please ask for help and check on a friend today...YOU ARE NOT ALONE!
You Matter!
Love, The Positive Painting Project Team
Alisa Whysong, Todd Whysong, Nanci Goldberg, Mackenzie Seymour, Allison Butka, and Joyce Swope