By Josh Sigler
jsigler@thepaperofwabash.com
WABASH, Ind. – “A Touch of Arc” Art Show and reception, featuring works created by South Miami Street Artists, will be held on Friday, Nov. 2 from 5-8 p.m. at Borders & Beyond Gallery, 24 W. Canal St., Wabash, during the First Friday festivities.
The art work featured in this show was created by people with disabilities who receive services at Arc of Wabash County. Individuals attend classes taught by Arc staff who have backgrounds in art and are artists in their own right. Most paintings are the result of collaborations between Arc staff and persons served by Arc. Paintings in this show were produced by 23 artists.
“I think it gives them a sense of pride,” said Lindsay Swihart, Vice President of Programs and Services at Arc. ‘They get to see their work showcased in front of other people. They take a lot of pride when they do it, so I think it allows everybody to see their talents.”
Arc sold nearly 80 percent of its paintings a year ago. Money received from the previous art show in 2017 provided the funds for all the artists supplies and framing.
This year, some of the proceeds will also be used as awards to the top three artists.
Borders & Beyond Gallery provides Arc a generous discount on matting and framing
The art classes are made available to those exhibiting an interest in learning to express themselves through art.
“What impressed me the most is seeing the faces and the pride displayed by each artist when their creation is finished and on display, said Nancy Hoffman, President and CEO of Arc. “It’s wonderful. Starting our art program at Arc about seven years ago has been a dream come true. Having gallery showings is spectacular; beyond anything I could have imagined.”
Following the reception on Nov. 2, the paintings will be put on display at Borders & Beyond until the end of November. Starting in December, paintings may be purchased at Arc of Wabash County, located at 595 S. Miami St. in Wabash.
Funds from the sale of the art work during the show will be used to support future art classes which will continue to be provided at no costs to Arc participants.
The art work this year will be judged by Amy Ford and Diane Morris. The prize money will be awarded $75 for first place, $50 for second place, and $25 for third place.