In a time marked by conflict, division, and rising trauma , many individuals – especially artists, survivors, and young people – Are struggling to find safe spaces to process, express, reconnect AND GROW AGAIN.
Mental Health in Crisis: A Brief Snapshot
≈3,000,000 Israelis (38%) report symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, or depression. about 580,000 experiencing severe symptoms
Up to 75% of residents in high-conflict zones continue to experience mental health symptoms, still elevated months later
PTSD rates nearly doubled, from ~16% pre-conflict to ~30% within two months post-event.
Depression increased from 31% to ~45%; anxiety climbed from 25% to ~43%
90% of those affected have not accessed formal mental health treatment, facing wait times of up to six months
Among soldiers, PTSD symptoms tripled from 0.5% at enlistment to around 12% during the conflict
About the 8 Project
What is The 8 Project, and Why We Founded It
The 8 Project is a creative healing initiative that empowers survivors and Jewish artists to share their stories through art. Born from a need to respond to trauma, it creates inclusive, community-driven spaces for healing, expression, and resilience. Rooted in Jewish values of empathy and justice, we use art to transform pain into purpose, fight antisemitism, and build bridges across communities.
Artists residency program
A two-month solo residency program for survivors of trauma from the U.S. and abroad, offering space, tools, and therapeutic support to process experiences and create meaningful, expressive art. Licensed therapists conduct initial assessments, meet regularly with residents, and guide the therapeutic process throughout the residency. Designed to support post-traumatic growth, this program provides a supportive environment where healing and creativity go hand in hand.
Group-based collaborative projects
Monthly group-based collaborative art projects and public community work where groupS of survivors / first responders / veterans from different communities co-create large-scale works
Community build
Foster community through collaborative art, exhibitions, events, and studio gatherings.
Turning Art Into Action
THE ART CREATED THROUGH 8 IS NOT CONFINED TO THE STUDIO. IT IS:
- Curated and exhibited in public spaces, including galleries, museums, and community centers
- Shared across digital platforms, amplifying stories of healing, survival, and resilience
- Used to educate and engage the public, especially on the long-term effects of trauma
COMBATING HATE AND FIGHTING Antisemitism
We confront antisemitism and hate through bold, visible acts of creation. from street art that brings our stories into public space to exhibitions in powerful institutions. By making our presence seen and our voices heard, we challenge silence and erasure. We reach beyond our own community to collaborate, build, and heal Together.
The Chronology of 8: 2023 - Present
artist
residency
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A Transformative Residency for Trauma Survivors
The 8 Project’s Artist Residency Program offers survivors of trauma a rare and powerful opportunity to process their experiences through art – within a structured, healing-centered environment.
Unlike traditional residencies that simply offer time and space to create, our program is built on a trauma-informed, rehab-inspired model. Residents commit to a guided, purposeful journey that blends consistent creative practice, therapy, and community connection, helping artists reclaim their voice, purpose, and future.
Program Overview
Each residency spans 1 to 2 months and takes place in our dedicated studio in Los Angeles.
Participants include:
- Survivors of the October 7th terror attack
- IDF veterans and reservists
- First responders, released hostages, and Bereaved spouses and siblings
- Victims of antisemitic violence or traumatic antisemitic events
All participants carry profound trauma and are offered a safe, structured space to heal, rebuild, and create with professional and emotional support.
Structured for Healing and Growth
This is not an open-ended or casual residency. It is designed as a rehabilitation-style program, with structure, accountability, and support at its core.
Artists accepted into the program agree to follow a structured weekly schedule, which includes:
- Daily studio practice
- Scheduled therapy sessions and emotional support
- Regular mentorship and group sessions
Residents are expected to fully participate in all aspects of the program. The goal is to support personal healing and creative development through consistent engagement and a commitment to the process.
Collaborative Projects & Community Engagement
In addition to personal work, each resident takes part in collaborative group art projects that foster connection, shared healing, and a sense of collective purpose. These projects may include:
- Large-scale public artworks or murals
- Community healing events or installations
- Interactive exhibitions that give voice to survivor stories
- Cross-disciplinary collaborations between residents
These projects are designed to build trust, inspire teamwork, and extend the impact of the residency beyond the studio, creating art that speaks to shared experience, resilience, and hope.
What the Residency Provides:
✅ International Travel Support – Round-trip airfare to and from Los Angeles
✅ Safe Housing – Fully covered accommodations in a secure, welcoming space
✅ Art Supplies & Materials – Access to professional-grade canvases, paints, and creative tools
✅ Mental Health Services – Clinical trauma assessment, weekly one-on-one therapy and ongoing on-site emotional support
✅ Creative Mentorship – Weekly personalized sessions with artist and founder Tomer Peretz
✅ Public Exposure – Participation in curated exhibitions, media features, and digital storytelling
✅ Community Integration – Collaborate on public art projects and healing initiatives
✅ Professional Development – Career planning, artistic business guidance, and long-term sustainability support
How to Apply
For questions or more information, please contact: info@the8project.org