Art Exhibit Story

Judging by the guest book alone, TRC’s recent art exhibit was a success.

Some 70 works created by persons with disabilities from throughout The Resource Center were on display at the Prendergast Library in Jamestown from January 10 to February 15. The exhibit was arranged and organized by Kristen Briggs, a local artist who for the past year has been teaching art to persons with disabilities at TRC’s “Alternatives” Day Habilitation Program.

More than 250 names appear in the guest book, and many of those who signed their name also expressed their feelings about the exhibit:

"Awesome pictures"
"Very beautiful"
"Outstanding — would like to see more"
"Free, colorful and inspiring"
"Keep going!"
"These are wonderful"
"What an inspiring exhibit! Keep up the good work!"
"A strikingly refreshing adventure"
"So proud of all of you"
"Wow — impressive!"
"Cool stuff"
"How exciting! Great colors and lots of energy"
"Fantastic works of art"
"Vibrant — the paintings have energy and excitement"
"They brightened my day!"
"This stuff rocks my socks off"
"Inspiring to everyone and anyone"
"Amazing artwork!!! Great job!"
"The `Iris' group painting was powerful — I loved it!"
"Nice work. Nice program! Hooray, Kristen!"

Two opening receptions were held, giving members of the public the opportunity to view the exhibit and meet the artists. Kristen said the artists were thrilled to see their works displayed on the walls of the gallery, and to hear the acclaim of gallery visitors, several of whom purchased works from the exhibit.

"They finally got to see the artist inside of them represented appropriately," Kristen said.

The Prendergast Library regularly exhibits works created by local artists. One regular visitor to the library’s gallery wrote, "This show is the most awesome show you've ever displayed."

Kristen said she has been in discussions with other venues and that it is likely TRC's artists will have their works exhibited in other places this year. In the meantime, she plans to teach art to people with disabilities in other TRC programs.

James Oakes contributes to a group mural that was displayed in the art exhibit at the Prendergast Library.


Taynisha Lynch shows a visitor her contribution to the group mural.

Mary Weaver and Phil Murvine admire one another’s creations.

Comment

We’re excited about what we’ve done with the arts thus far and about what we hope to accomplish in the future as our art programs move forward. And we hope that, in viewing the works contained in our Calendar and in reading about the exhibition at the Prendergast Library, you’ll be inspired to support our efforts through a financial contribution. Donations of any amount are appreciated. To make a secure donation online, please click here