April 12, 2008
Children's Art
One of the most inspirational art experiences I’ve had was a visit to Creative Growth Art Center in Oakland, California, which serves physically, mentally and developmentally disabled adult artists. My friend Rebecca was an instructor and I got to meet the artists, see their work, and hear them talk about it. I’ve been around plenty of working artists, but the passion, sincerity, and lack of bullshit from these artists was refreshing, to say the least. It was a remarkable day. My “when I win the lottery” dream includes opening a similar art center in the area.
In a somewhat similar vein, on Friday, April 18th, The Sheldon Art Galleries hosts a free opening reception from 5-7 p.m. for the exhibition Things That Matter: Art by Children with Autism. The exhibit features art created by children with autism from St. Louis and the surrounding region. Coordinated by Bevin Early and Nancy Pierson, artists and educators who work with children with autism, the mission of this exhibition project is to offer children with ASD an opportunity to show their work publicly, develop identities as artists and educate the general community about autism.
I am really excited about this show, which runs through September 13, 2008. I encourage you to attend the opening reception, and support a real friend of 52nd City, Bevin Early. Visit the Sheldon’s website for more information.