For the Love of Art

 

an Arts Access virtual exhibition

 

Arts Access is pleased to present our second virtual exhibition, For the Love of Art celebrating the creative passion of the Arts Access artists.

Why do we love art?

What is it about art that draws us in? What is it that captivates us and stays with us long after we’ve seen it? The answers and are many and varied; here are just a few of ours:

Communication

Art is the universal language, allowing us to communicate beyond words.

“It’s hard to say how I’m feeling, so I am saying it with this painting, and that way people can know how I feel.” – Amy Ring, Arts Access Artist

Many of the Arts Access artists have unique ways of communicating. Some use eye gaze, others a nod or head shake, others have speech generating devices. Whatever the communication, art is a powerful tool to express what they are thinking, feeling, and experiencing.

Connection

Art creates connections. It stirs our emotions, makes us feel something we weren’t just a moment ago. Human beings have a universal desire to connect. Art reaches across all barriers and bringing us together.

“My paintings are like stories and they have impact on how I feel.” – Jessica Evans, Arts Access Artist

 Perspective

Art exposes us to new ideas and viewpoints, and expands our world view. Through artists’ work, they share their experiences and observations, and teach us how to look at life differently.

Brad, an Arts Access artist and writer, was overcome with emotion the day he realized that he could share his life experience with the world. “Can I write my life story?” With a simple “yes,” a door had been opened that he didn’t even know existed. It was an opportunity for him to share with the world and for the world to listen.

Power

Art has the power to transport us, it creates its own world and draws us in. We can use that as an opportunity to learn or as a temporary reprieve from our day-to-day. There is so much we receive from art and so many ways we are moved by it.

“There are no boundaries for me in art.” – Mike Arin, Arts Access Artist

At Arts Access, individuals with disabilities have the freedom to create art and engage the world in profound ways. Their creative passions inspire us and drive this program.

So, the question is: Why do you love art?

Thank you to everyone who visited the virtual gallery. This exhibition was available online February 18 – June 6, 2021.

If you are interested in purchasing a piece from the exhibit, please email: info@artsaccessprogram.org/staging