ART START

ArtStart Seeks Funding for ArtLife

Many of us have memories of the first time we held a crayon or created a painting; some may even have saved a special art work framed by a proud parent and given a special place in the home. Wonderful, deep memories of art making that are in our bones. But imagine, being an adult and never having held a paint brush or having been encouraged to express yourself through art making. These are some of the stories that ArtStart, a non-profit arts organization, heard at meetings with Lifeworks Services Inc., one of the oldest and most successful social service non-profits in the Twin Cities.

Together we have created ArtLife, a program designed to nurture the creative spirit of adults with disabilities through art making. Adults at two Lifeworks Services locations work with professional artists from ArtStart to create drawings, paintings, prints and other art works inspired by visits to nature centers and outdoor facilities with the artist. After a month of teaching in this program, one ArtStart artist said, “I would not trade this experience for anything. I feel what I have to offer is so valued and that I make a difference to people who want and need to express what is in their heart. And, the talent-it is awesome!”

ArtStart is requesting your support so that we can continue our ArtLife program and nurture the creative spirit of adults with disabilities.