A Citrus County organization is working to give special needs artists the chance to have their work seen. For the first time, each artist can submit five works to be a part of the gala in June.
- Special needs artists get chance to showcase work at gala
- Organization to put on "Abilities" Art Gala
- Gala to be held at Art Center of Citrus County
“I don’t know what I’m painting sometimes. Sometimes I’m just throwing paint on the thing and looking at it and figuring it out,” Connie Bass said.
For Bass painting isn’t just a hobby, it’s her lifeline.
“You have to keep your mind busy when you’re dealing with pain,” Bass said.
She has Cerebral Palsy and Sciatica, which has her in a lot of pain. Painting is her escape.
She taught herself some techniques on Youtube and loves showcasing different parts of nature.
“It was really a toss up between having the ocean and having a rock cliff but I really like doing rock cliffs,” Bass said.
Her work will be some of several different pieces on display at the “Abilities” Art Gala being put on by the organization Family and Friends Reaching for Abilities in Citrus County.
For the past few months, they’ve had experienced artists like Lauri Gist come and help the participants get their work ready.
“This group has been so incredible for me as an artist to keep in perspective what art really is. It’s about having fun and just putting it on the page. These folks are not worried about awards or prizes or being judged they are just having the time of their lives,” Gist said.
And for many of the participants, just being part of this program has sparked or even strengthened their love of art.
“This group is about embracing the entire community and giving them an experience in something that they would normally not be part of,” Gist explained.
The Art Center of Citrus County will be home to the gala in late June, showcasing the artists’ work. The pieces will then be on display there throughout the month of July for the public to enjoy.
There is another mentoring session with experienced artists coming up on May 12 at Unity Church of Citrus County and it’s not too late to join.
If you or someone you know is interested, you can contact Family and Friends Reaching for Abilities here.
