We believe Art is a universal LANGUAGE that articulates the hidden truths embedded in our traumas. As Frederich Nietzsche once remarked,  “Chaos gives birth to a dancing star.” Artistic expression is a form of freedom, because it allows us to take ownership of inner dimensions of the self that were inaccessible prior to traumatic experience. Pain generates content that expands our self-knowledge.

‍We are only free when we know. Art is not just a tool for self-expression, but self-discovery.

‍Why We are Different

‍By stimulating new methods and strategies for understanding mental health, CR18’s philosophy acts as a form of social criticism. We believe pain is generative, and it must be given a productive space to facilitate true recovery. A medicinal approach that tries to remove pain as opposed to letting it speak is but one method. Let's produce before we remove. 

We believe in Fostering Community. CR18 is not just a platform - it’s a community of like-minded individuals who want to make the world a better place through creative activity.  Creation is Redemption, To create is to redeem, Freedom from suffering is the beauty found in suffering

CR18 is an initiative founded and led by NFL Wide Receiver Dante Pettis. His mission is to utilize the production and dissemination of art as a primary social outlet to combat the growing epidemic of mental and emotional deficiency.