The artwork displayed in one of the hallways of Wesley’s Special Care Unit (SCU) is more than a colourful installation. Created by SCU clients during art classes led by artist Jennifer Wilson-Bridgeman, it shares a message about creativity, coping with challenges and taking small steps forward.
“I never thought something I made would be displayed anywhere like this.” – SCU Client
In her classes, Jennifer has been teaching participants about line work, exploring techniques such as thick and thin lines, curves, repetition, spacing, and overlapping patterns.
Beyond developing artistic skills, these sessions create opportunities for gentle conversations about life challenges, problem-solving, coping strategies, self-expression, learning, and reflection. Jennifer encourages participants to recognize the sense of peace they experience while creating art and to draw on that feeling when navigating difficult situations.
The inspiration for the hallway installation came from Mel Robbins’ book The 5 Second Rule, which introduces a simple strategy for overcoming hesitation and taking action. For clients at Wesley’s Special Care Unit, many of whom are navigating homelessness and addiction, taking that first step toward change can feel especially challenging. Whether it’s building new routines, working toward personal goals or navigating the challenges of recovery, progress often begins with small, manageable actions. Jennifer shared this technique as a reminder that even when moving forward feels difficult, taking one small step can help build momentum toward positive change.
The idea of The Five Second Rule is to count backwards from five to one and then physically act on the task or decision you’ve been putting off, rather than giving doubt or overthinking time to take over. Jennifer shared this strategy with SCU clients as a practical tool for taking small steps forward, even when challenges like anxiety, depression or a lack of motivation make getting started feel difficult.
To bring the concept to life, Jennifer invited participants to trace their hands, representing the countdown from five to one, and fill the shapes with different lines and patterns. The result is a collaborative artwork that connects creative expression with a practical reminder: sometimes, moving forward starts with one small action.
Now displayed in the hallway of Wesley’s Special Care Unit, the artwork gives clients a chance to see their creativity celebrated and their contributions become part of the space they share. For one client, seeing his work on display was especially meaningful: “I never thought something I made would be displayed anywhere like this.”
The artwork reflects the connection between creativity, resilience and personal growth. Through each hand and its unique patterns, the installation serves as a reminder that progress doesn’t have to happen all at once. Sometimes, it begins with a single small step toward a brighter future.
