Exhibition of art by students with disabilities and teaching artists dissolves boundaries

ORANGE, NJ: Arts Unbound, the gallery and studio dedicated to artists with disabilities and seniors, will display its annual Student and Teacher Exhibit, beginning with an opening reception on Saturday, July 8, from 2:00-5:00pm.

This exhibit highlights the success of Arts Unbound’s visual art education program for adults with mental illness, developmental, and physical disabilities, as well as for seniors. The show features artworks that students have completed in their individual and group classes over the past year exhibited alongside artworks by the organization’s professional teaching artists, creating a showcase of more than 140 works by the talent at Arts Unbound. By focusing on the visual expression of the artists, rather than any impairments, we challenge the boundaries and stigma associated with disability and aging.

Amanda Anastasia, a new student this year, will have her painting titled “Reflection” in the show. She creates her paintings of animals and colorful scenes with her paintbrush attached to a visor she wears.

Asked what her favorite part of coming to Arts Unbound is, Amanda says it's the nice people. She does not have specific goals for her painting yet, but is inspired to paint by her grandmother. Amanda calls her art "believe art" and the teachers at Arts Unbound certainly believe in her.

The exhibit will be on display through Saturday, September 2, during the gallery’s regular operating hours. Visit the gallery to learn more about Arts Unbound’s programming and classes.

Arts Unbound is dedicated to the artistic achievement of people living with disabilities and seniors. They provide visual arts education and professional development to help emerging artists compete on the retail market. By promoting the work of artists with disabilities and seniors, Arts Unbound centers their art-making rather than any impairments and by doing so challenges the stigma associated with disability and aging.

The Dora Stern Gallery at Arts Unbound is located in the Valley Arts District at 544 Freeman Street, in Orange. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, 10am-4pm, Saturdays noon-5pm, and by appointment. www.artsunbound.org or call 973-675-2787. For more information contact Celene Ryan cryan@artsunbound.org