CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. -- A unique exhibit on display right now at the Art Center of Citrus County is giving exposure to new artists, some who never expected to have their work on display for all to see.

  • Exhibit displays work from artists with special needs
  • Will be on display until the end of July

It's one a kind not only for the art itself, but also because of the people behind each piece.

Each one of the paintings was done by an artist with special needs. 

"I was in shock," Connie Bass said. 

Connie suffers from chronic pain and has Cerebral Palsy and Sciatica. She uses art to escape her day to day challenges. This is the first time any of her pieces have been in a gallery. 

"They treat me like my art work really matters and that's the first time that's ever happened to me. It really has and I can't tell you how much that means to me because honestly I put my pain my sweat and my tears in this every single piece," she explained. 

A total of 29 artists created the 71 pieces that are on display. 

It's all thanks to the organization Family and Friends Reaching for Abilities in Citrus County. 

There were several mentoring sessions with professionals over the last few months to help the artists create their work and showcase their unique personalities.

All of the work here is for sale and dozens have already sold, including some of Connie's pieces. 

"I knew that I was painting for my purpose for my own personal issues but I didn't realize that anyone else would like it,” she said.

An experience Connie said she won't soon forget.

The exhibit will be on display until the end of July.