Artistic Assembly Programs
Our Artistic Assembly program is part lecture, and part concert. In this unique program, our founder, Cynda Renae, tells her story of pain interwoven with performances of songs she wrote to heal herself. The lecture empowers students with a message of hope through artistic expression. The concert will have your students rocking out!
I would like to thank you for presenting to our students a new type of assembly that promotes hope inspired by creativity!”
-Teresa Howard, Vice Principal, Littlerock High School
Mental Health, Suicide Prevention, Art Therapy
Growing up can be hard, but for our founder, Cynda Renae, growing up seemed impossible. Raised by an unfit mother, childhood came with dirty clothes,
knotted hair and spoiled food. As a teenager, she could no longer stand being neglected and suicidal thoughts crept in. Journaling and writing poems kept her going.
After starting college, her life seemed to have turned around. This positive change was derailed the night she was kidnapped and raped at gunpoint while walking to her car. The first policemen she told did not believe her, leaving her feeling alone, depressed and suicidal once more. This is when music saved her. She began to write songs about the pain she was going through.
Forming the band Cockeyed Optimist, Cynda found her healing by performing those painful songs. The name Cockeyed Optimist means to be hopeful in the face of adversity. Knowing what art had helped her overcome, she wanted to empower others. Out of this, I Am A Cockeyed Optimist was born.
The Artistic Assembly program will leave students inspired and transformed. Students will also be informed of our online database of crisis resources for those who need extra help. Afterwards, the band is also available to meet and take pictures with the students. The 45-minute program is typically performed with a full band including drums and guitar amps, and can be performed in an auditorium, theater, gymnasium or out-of-doors.
Interested in bringing this program to your school? Fill out the interest form!
I really enjoyed you guys being at my school today, I am able to relate to Cynda's story a lot... my only wish would be for no one to feel alone.
-Erica, HS Student