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ART SHOW HIGHLIGHTS WORKS BY PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES by
Allan Lipsett - Smyrna/Vinings Bright Side
A unique public art show in East Atlanta during December will highlight
works created by persons with disabilities. Bridge to Community,
an art project of artists with developmental disabilities sponsored
by the Cobb and Douglas Community Services Board will be an historic
art event.
An opening reception for the large tile, mosaic, and multi-media
installation entitled “Many Hands, Many Faces,” was
held Dec, 4 in East Atlanta at The Sabra Gallery, 465B Flat Shoals
Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30316, Thai and Sushi Restaurant Gallery, and
East Atlanta Arts and Antiques Bazaar.
“The art event we have put together has taken months in the
planning. And is the first of its kind in Atlanta. All the work
is done by people with disabilities. There is something there from
huge installation pieces for builders and public buildings, glass
work to Christmas ornaments,” said resident artistic director
Jim Slattery. “And please support our sponsors,” Slattery
added.
“Come to see what happens when an agency makes the best practice
decisions based on client self determination in supported employment,
self-employment and community inclusion,” said Mr. Slattery.
Slattery, who was misdiagnosed with developmental disabilities as
a child but still suffers from a mental illness, began the art program
for the Cobb and Douglas CSB’s five years ago. There are Art
Studios at all three of the CSB’s life long learning centers
in Smyrna, Austell and Douglasville. The consumers participate in
all aspects from purchasing to designing, delivering to marketing
of the art work products. They also earn 60 percent of the sale
price with the remaining 40 percent going to the replenishment of
art supplies. Consumers participate in wood working, crafts, and
other high end art projects.
 “The
pieces are amazing,” said Nancy Brooks-Lane, Director of Developmental
Disabilities. “While we were hanging the display at the restaurant
an artist came in and raved about the art. It was truly inclusive
because he did not know the artists happen to have disabilities.”
The Cobb & Douglas Community Services Boards provide mental
health, developmental disability and substance abuse services to
more than 14,000 residents of Cobb and Douglas Counties annually.
For services call the Access Center at 770-422-0202.
The Smyrna-Vinings Bright Side
www.smyrnabrightside.com
770-426-9388
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