On Monday, June 26, artists from Arts Access and JSDD’s WAE Center gathered on Zoom for an stimulating evening to celebrate the opening of the 13th annual Collaborative ARTS Exhibit at Rutgers NJMS.
Excited to share their work with friends, family, and art lovers during the virtual event, the artists of both Arts Access and the WAE Center were eager to get started. They had a chance to log on early and chat with each other a little before the start of the event. Then the evening officially began with opening remarks from Eileen Murray, director of Arts Access, Monica Schneider-Brewer of the WAE Center, and Audrey McNeil, the Assistant Director of IT at Rutgers NJMS.
After the introductions, the artists were invited to speak while a slideshow was presented highlighting the artwork on view in the exhibit. Many of the artists shared the inspiration behind their work and talked about the process of creating their pieces. It was a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the artists and their creative process. Artists in attendance included Josh Handler, Lee Papierowicz, Tammy Hopper, Ellen Kane, James Lane, Paul Santo, and several artists from the WAE Center.
Afterwards, we received some incredible feedback from attendees at the event, including:
“The opening reception was so inspiring! Such creative artists.”
“So pleased to see each artist reflect on their work. A wonderful event full of invention and appreciation.”
“I liked hearing directly from the artists about their work and inspiration.”
“The artists’ work is pretty amazing.”
“I liked hearing from the artists themselves. I could view in the comfort of my home. I was able to ask questions.”
Overall, the Collaborative ARTS exhibit was a tremendous success. It showcased the incredible talent and creativity of individuals with disabilities and provided a platform for them to share their work with the world. It was a reminder of the importance of providing access to the arts for all individuals and the incredible impact that it can have on their lives.
The Collaborative ARTS exhibit is on view June 26 – August 31 both in-person at Rutgers NJMS and virtually on exhibbit.com. Click HERE to view the exhibit online. If you are interested in viewing the exhibit in person, contact julia@artsaccessprogram.org/staging.
About Rutgers NJMS
The nation’s best medical schools are known for providing the highest quality medical education, research, patient services, and community outreach. At Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, these priorities are combined with a commitment to constant innovation and progress as we keep our mission, vision, and values in mind.
About JSDD’s WAE Center
JSDD’s WAE Center is a holistic, creative and expressive arts learning center for people with disabilities, dedicated to “Finding the Spark Within”.
JSDD (Jewish Service for the Developmentally Disabled) is a multi-purpose agency dedicated to providing an integrated program of community education, advocacy, and services for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. At JSDD the expectations for quality extend beyond what services and supports may be available to what life fulfilling experiences are possible. Our philosophy supports the notion that there are no limits to those possibilities.
The WAE Center Art Studio is a place where members are invited to explore creating fine art through painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, jewelry design, and digital art. Members work both independently and with the guidance and support of trained facilitator mentors in an environment that is founded on neutrality and inclusion.
