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Since 2017, Rhoda and Dave have created and sold handcrafted pottery, turned wood, fiber arts, and watercolor prints through their initiative, Art of the Heart, donating more than $70,000 to Minnesota mental health non-profits. This fall, Guild is honored to partner with Art of the Heart for a special community art market on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at Guild Wabasha in St. Paul.

We sat down with Rhoda to learn more about the deep personal story behind Art of the Heart, the science of creative therapy, and why community-based support matters now more than ever.

The Symbol Behind the Art

The story of Art of the Heart began with Rhoda and Dave’s son, Adam—a gifted, Mensa-smart 17-year-old who struggled deeply with anxiety, depression, and finding a peer group where he felt he belonged.

When Adam attended a wilderness program in Utah, his parents traveled out to visit him. In preparation for the trip, Rhoda carved a wooden spoon shaped like an arrow to use for their meals.

“An arrow is something that has to propel backwards in order to shoot forwards. I used that symbolically to encourage Adam when he was struggling not to fear taking a step back—because even arrows have to go back to go forward.”

— Rhoda Michaelynn

Tragically, Adam passed away from an accidental overdose at age 18. Facing overwhelming grief, Rhoda and Dave turned to art for therapy—Rhoda sitting outside to carve and work with clay, and Dave taking up wood turning on a lathe. As their creations grew, friends suggested they sell their pieces. They established Art of the Heart to honor Adam’s memory and support mental health causes across Minnesota.

Today, Adam’s arrow symbol—crafted from his initials—is branded into every piece of wood and ceramic they create, serving as an enduring message of hope and resilience.

Partnering with Guild 

When looking for new ways to support the community, Guild’s mission resonated with Rhoda and Dave. Drawing from personal family experiences with mental health challenges and homelessness, Rhoda recognized the importance of long-term, comprehensive support.

“Organizations like Guild take it beyond immediate treatment,” Rhoda noted.“There needs to be more organizations that meet people where they’re at for the long term, recognizing that these can be lifelong conditions that need management and support for the long haul.”

This year’s Art of the Heart Market will also feature original artwork created by Guild clients and staff. Proceeds from client artwork go 100% directly back to the artists, fostering inclusion and financial independence. 

“The isolation that some people with mental health struggles experience is debilitating,” Rhoda shared. “The more we can include everyone in everyday activities and community events, the more likely they are to feel good about themselves and know we’re all part of the same community.”

Join Us at the Market!

Mark your calendar for a fun, inspiring day of shopping, connection, and community giving!

• Saturday, November 14, 2026
• 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Guild Wabasha | 122 Wabasha St. S., Suite 122, St. Paul, MN
• Free & open to the public!

Special Event Feature: “Chill Out” Ice Cream Bowls

Attendees can purchase a handmade pottery bowl and have it filled with ice cream! This fun feature supports individuals struggling with anxiety while offering a great opportunity to socialize and connect.

Whether you are looking for unique holiday gifts or want to support local mental health services, we invite you to celebrate the healing power of art with us.

A special thank you to Art of the Heart for partnering with us this year! You can learn more about them at artoftheheartgifts.com.