YORK, Pa. — "It is interesting how your life kind of comes through the painting," said Bonita Bollinger.
The York native has been putting her paint brush to paper for more than 25 years.
"For me, I am now a mom of two boys, and I love having the time to be me again and have an identity outside of the house," said Bollinger. "Also, just to have that creative time where I can shut off my brain to the world and to the business."
She says not only can painting be therapeutic, but it's personally helped her through battles with Lyme disease and breast cancer.
"I was having insomnia a lot during chemo, so the one night, instead of watching TV, I was finally like, you know what, let me paint," she said. "It's kind of difficult to describe. How much it just helps you forget about all the different things in your life."
Now cancer-free, Bollinger found the time to get back into the studio and do what she loves.
She opened Blissful Bonita Art Studio in York back in 2011. Ever since, she's been sharing her passion with others.
"Part of my mission here is to be welcoming for the misfits, the marginalized, those who are misunderstood, and we welcome everybody," said Bollinger.
Over the next few months, Bonita is putting on several summer camps at the studio. She says the sessions provide those of any age or ability with a creative outlet, with no prior experience required.
"It's meant for beginners and those who've got their artwork under their bed and have never displayed it," she said. "And I also have classes for people who are starting out and kids, adults, everyone who always wants to create but never has time to create."
She hopes giving them this creative space will help them through their personal journeys.
"Everybody has their thing that just gives them joy and peace. So that's what I love to do," said Bollinger.