A meet-the-artists reception is scheduled 5:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday at Chattanooga State Community College for the October exhibit in the Augusta R. Kolwyck Library. "Flying Brushes" features works by artists who have developmental disabilities and physical limitations.
The exhibit, which continues through Oct. 31, is organized by Open Arms Care. The nonprofit organization provides life skills development, vocational services, recreational therapy and community integration to individuals with disabilities.
OAC's specialized art program, also called Flying Brushes, offers various ways for clients to express themselves. According to a news release, the program began with a technique called Artistic Realization Technologies, created by professional artist Tim Lefens. Each class is taught one-on-one and individualized for the student.
The most common use of the ART technique is a laser attached to a piece of adaptive equipment. A "tracker," who assists the student with creating the artwork, follows the laser point with the exact tool, color and texture the artist chooses.
Some of the artists must use the ART technique; others who have the ability to paint may opt for a more traditional technique. Either way, the goal is to make the artist feel empowered to freely create their work, said Amy Pinyan Rowe, an ART program specialist.
"OAC's artists have something to tell us, and their canvases are something worth sharing," she said.
All of the paintings are available for purchase. The artists receive 100 percent of the proceeds.
For more information, contact OAC at 238-9636.