About Us
The Arts Group presents:
An innovative approach to self discovery
The Arts Group (TAG) is dedicated to exploring and utilizing the arts as a vehicle for self-awareness, self-realization and self-expression.
Meeting for 2 hours once a week, participants will be involved in acting, singing and dance - though our primary form will be acting. TAG will use the techniques of improvisation, monologues and storytelling.
TAG aims to bring about an increased sense of self-awareness in each individual and to create thought provoking material to share with the community through the arts. TAG, aware of the endless possibilities of the arts and artistic expression, will strive to utilize these to support individuals as well as the larger community.
Wali (William Bickley), CEO of The Arts Group, is a multifaceted artist who started playing flute at 14. He desired to compose and write music. Wali has had a few different bands, one in Atlanta, “The Real Live Band,” that opened for Roy Ayers in Atlanta, and his Inner Journey Band that started in Spain, where Wali lived for five years, has included such names as Alphie Pollitt, Tony Jones, Bert Harris, Robert Henderson. He also studied acting at the Community College of Philadelphia and Freedom Theatre of Philadelphia, which started his love and passion for the stage. In the past ten years, he has written and co-written two plays he directed and wrote theme songs. Wali’s motto is, “ If you live, learn, and appreciate the arts, it could improve your life.”
Problem Worth Solving
Addiction and gun violence are growing problems in Philadelphia, profoundly impacting the city's residents. The opioid epidemic, in particular, devastated communities. Philadelphia had the highest rate of overdose deaths compared to any other major city in the country, nearly twice the rate of Chicago, the next closest city. 1 The COVID-19 pandemic increased the rate of substance abuse and added additional stressors like isolation and suicidal ideation.
In 2022, Philadelphia experienced 1,788 nonfatal and 474 fatal shooting victims. That is an average of six people shot daily throughout 2022. Gun violence ."3 Nationwide, 48,830 people died by firearms, and 80,411 died from opioids
Unfortunately, "substance use itself can produce forms of social, physical, and emotional intimacy that facilitate everyday survival." 5 Providing those experiencing addiction with other forms of social, physical, and emotional intimacy is necessary. Art-based therapy is one way these needs are met.
"Creative expressions such as art, videos, drama, and photovoice provide individuals with a medium to explore their thoughts, emotions, [behaviors], and actions."
Addiction is a complex issue that can contribute to a lack of opportunities in Philadelphia. Exploring alternative addiction support mechanisms will enable those experiencing addiction to fulfill their emotional and social needs.