At Awelo Ministries, we believe that nothing and no one is beyond restoration. Just as we repurpose discarded copper, PVC, coconuts, and other forgotten materials into meaningful art, we can also reclaim the parts of ourselves that feel thrown away. When you allow the artist inside you to explore new possibilities, you begin to see that your life—like every piece of art—is a one-of-a-kind original, imperfect and beautiful.
• You are not broken beyond repair.
• Your story, like upcycled materials, can be reshaped into something powerful.
• The moment you pick up a tool, a pencil, or an idea, you are already an artist.
Let this portrait be a mirror: a reminder that the artist is not just the person in the picture, but the person reading these words.
The Artist Inside Us All
I must have been five years old when I climbed on a chair, grabbed a slice of bread, and tried to make myself a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. As I spread the strawberry jelly, I dropped it—and as General Murphy would have it, it landed jelly-side down. I was overwhelmed with sadness and a feeling of failure. My mother came over, picked up the slice of jelly bread off the floor, slammed it right next to where it had landed, picked it up again and said, “You see, we made a beautiful butterfly.” That was the moment when I became an artist.
For me, becoming an artist came from a broken moment—from failure, from sadness—but more importantly from the gift I received from someone who loved me and saw great value in me. All this just to tell you: let me be my mother in your art story. I love you, and I see value in you. It is never too late to make art a friend for the rest of your life, as it has been for me.
Restoring the Soul Through Creativity
ART IS MY RELIGION
True healing requires a language that goes beyond words. For those who have walked through dark valleys, experienced the physical tolls of injury, or carried the invisible weight of mental trauma, traditional communication can fall short.
To me, art is more than a trade—it is a spiritual sanctuary and a form of testimony. When we carve, sculpt, or create, we enter a sacred space of absolute presence. We transform raw, chaotic emotions into structured, physical beauty.
WE WELCOME MATERIAL DONATIONS
Help us keep our community kits 100% free! Bring your extra arts or crafts supplies directly to our stand, including metals, clean PVC pipes and joiners, coconuts, balsa wood, pencils, crayons, paints, brushes, and sketchpads.
BEAUTY FROM THE DISCARDED
Our artistic ministry believes that nothing and no one is beyond restoration. Just as art can rebuild a broken spirit, it can also breathe new life into our planet.
We intentionally use upcycled, repurposed, and natural materials to create original carvings and jewelry. By taking items society has discarded or overlooked, we transform potential waste into meaningful treasures.
This sustainable approach helps protect the environment, proving that with patience, vision, and care, raw elements can be redeemed into masterpieces of peace.
WHAT SCIENCE SAYS ABOUT TRAUMA
The idea that art heals isn't just a concept—it is backed by modern clinical neuroscience. Recent global health studies compiled by the World Health Organization (WHO) demonstrate that regular engagement with tactile arts can actively reduce symptoms of depression, ease chronic pain, and accelerate trauma recovery.
Research from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) reveals that creating art dramatically lowers cortisol stress hormone levels in as little as 45 minutes. By engaging our visual and physical senses, art making stimulates neuroplasticity—the brain's unique ability to form new neural pathways. This helps to safely process distressing memories and restore stability to the nervous system.
SUPPORT OUR MINISTRY
Art is my religion, and my life's intent is to spread the word of its healing power. When you choose to support this creative ministry, 100% of your contributions go straight to the heart of our mission.
Every donation is used in its entirety to help spread the healing power of art. We purchase raw materials, produce safe tools, assemble complimentary starter kits for
youth and adults and produce instructional material that helps the beginner artists kick start their journey.
LEAVE A LEGACY OF PEACE
You can instantly fuel this chain reaction of success by scanning either of the secure QR codes below to issue a donation, or by visiting our digital home online.
HEALING THROUGH THE EDGE
How Art Restores the Soul, Rebuilds the Mind, and Achieves Inner Peace Healing the Spirit and Protecting the Earth
A Dedicated Ministry By:
David G. Cruz
Artist / Advocate & Disabled
Veteran
Our mission of healing and transformation
We utilize art to reclaim forgotten parts of ourselves and our environment, turning discarded materials into symbols of hope and beauty. Every piece in our collection tells a story of restoration, proving that nothing is ever truly beyond repair when seen through the eyes of an artist.
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Art as Restoration
I believe that creativity is a powerful tool for emotional and spiritual healing. By repurposing copper, PVC, and natural elements, I demonstrate the potential for renewal in all things. My workshops and galleries serve as sanctuaries where individuals can rediscover their inner artist and find peace in the creative process.
Discover a unique collection where raw material is transformed into contemporary art, celebrating the timeless dialogue between hand and world.
Community Impact
Supported by a loving network of artists and donors, we provide art starter packages to those in need of inspiration. These kits are intended to spark imagination and offer a gateway to a lifelong friendship with art. Join us in our mission to share hope, one creative project at a time.
The Starter Kit Package
Begin your journey into the healing world of art with our starter kit, filled with safe tools and supplies. While safety is vital, this package is here to spark your imagination, not limit it—if you feel moved to explore a unique path, please embrace it and enjoy your process. I am currently filming short instructional videos that you can find by clicking the YouTube link near the Awelo logo. It is a joy to share this new perspective with you as the artist. You have what it takes—enjoy the experience.
• Raw Materials: Selection of safe material for your first project.
• Essential Tools: Introductory safe carving tool and shaping instruments.
• Guidelines: Step-by-step instructional videos for your first project.
Welcome to my shop; Sorry about the mess!
This is what lunch looks like
when you love what you do
Working on a custom walking staff with the owner in mind. It was such an enjoyable project. What do you think? Does it bear a resemblance?
I had such a wonderful time teaching an introductory class to young and younger in Villarrica, Paraguay. Hope I can see you soon again.
Heart shaped pendant of angel wing feathers made out of a half-a-domino
Black Walnut candy bowl carved inside and out with floral motif.
Although we never formally met I get to call you my friend. Thank you for the opportunity to create this piece for your family.
In the round carving of a bow out of a single piece of black walnut. Background is old growth pine
A bracelet carved out of Electrical grade PVC pipe and guided to resemble aged golden piece.
Jesus in the cross on an oak log with brass nails.
Sharing Art in Downtown St. Petersburg
Sharing my art with the wonderful residents and visitors of downtown St. Petersburg over the last few weeks has been a truly remarkable experience. I am deeply grateful for the public's overwhelming support and the genuine interest shown in my creative process, the materials I upcycle, and the stories behind each piece. It has been a joy to connect through the language of art.
We look forward to continuing to be present in St. Pete from Thursday through Sunday, God and weather permitting. During these times, I will be equipped to receive donations of traditional and not-so-traditional art supplies to support our community ministry. I will also be exhibiting new works and conducting live carving or jewelry-making demonstrations. I truly look forward to a great meet and greet with all of you!
Artisanal Perspectives
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The organic textures of the sculptures are truly captivating. Each piece feels like a conversation with nature itself.
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A meticulous craftsmanship that elevates the ordinary into the extraordinary. The woodcarvings are a masterclass in detail.
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These sculptures are more than art; they are stories of patience and skill. A profound experience for any collector.
Join us in Downtown St. Petersburg near the pier entrance, right beside the majestic big red origami swan! God willing and weather permitting, I will be present every Thursday through Sunday during the afternoons and evenings. I’ll be showing my handcrafted works and sharing the vision of Awelo Ministries with neighbors and travelers alike. To keep our mission growing, we happily accept donations of art materials and other helpful gifts right at our stand. We can't wait to see you there!
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