Four years ago, local artist Danica Factor came to Boise looking for a fresh start.
She had worked in the corporate world for 17 years, living most of that time in New Jersey near New York City. She felt like her life “checked all of the boxes” for what a happy life should look like — a house, a husband, a daughter, a career — but she had been experiencing regular panic attacks.
Through talk therapy, her therapist gave her a simple suggestion that changed her life — to find a relaxing spot in her house and doodle for ten minutes a day.
“I would put my daughter to bed, my husband would be watching TV, and I would be next to a fireplace in this little corner just doodling,” Factor recalled.
By simply doodling each day, Factor was able to process difficult memories her brain had been suppressing.
“Through the art, I was able to completely heal,” Factor said. “I was able to uncover all these things that had happened, learn how to process it and let it out.”
Factor continued to create art through acrylic painting, and eventually decided to pursue art full-time. She and her husband decided to move to Boise for the outdoors and lifestyle the city could bring them.
Now, as a full-time artist in Idaho, Factor felt inspired to share the healing side of art she had experienced firsthand. She decided to start her newest project: Boise Women’s Art Group, a monthly gathering for women to explore art and its therapeutic benefits.
“I wanted to create a space that enabled women to come together and have that safe, supportive place to play with art and share what is on their heart and what they’re going through in a very judgment free and welcoming zone,” Factor said.
The group, open to women 18 and older, will meet monthly at the artist-owned Art Source Gallery in Downtown Boise.
“The gallery really wants to be part of the community and lift up, support and celebrate local art through our collaborative any time that we can,” Gallery Board Chair Genie Sue Weppner said, explaining why Boise Women’s Art Group fits perfectly at Art Source.
At each group gathering, participants will explore different art techniques and styles.
“It’s a great group for anybody who is inexperienced in art and wants to try it,” Factor said.
Factor will be hosting the group’s launch party on Feb. 12 at Art Source Gallery, where participants will create collage art, enjoy mocktails and snacks and connect with other women interested in art.
Women interested in participating can choose to purchase drop-in tickets or subscribe to the monthly membership plan, which also offers monthly Zoom art classes. Memberships and drop-in tickets can be purchased on Factor’s website at danicafactorart.com.
“I’m excited to reinvigorate people on the idea of community and connection,” Factor said. “We’re forgetting how important that is right now. I honestly just can’t wait for 30 women who like art to be in the same room.”
