Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith founded VSA Arts as an international nonprofit organization in 1974 to create a society for people with disabilities to learn about, participate in and enjoy the arts. VSA Arts is affiliated with the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. VSA Arts includes teaching support materials and an Artist’s Registry- a database of artists with disabilities.Location: 818 Connecticut Ave. N.W., Suite 600, Washington, D.C. 20006(P) 202-628-2800, 800-933-8721 (F) 202-429-0868 (TDD) 202-737-0645Online: http://www.vsarts.org/x11.xml
To view the online exhibit, “Art, Disability, and Expression”, visit:
http://www.vsarts.org/prebuilt/showcase/gallery/exhibits/disability/
To view the online exhibit, “Art, Disability, and Expression”, visit:
http://www.vsarts.org/prebuilt/showcase/gallery/exhibits/disability/
33 comments:
I think that VSA arts was such a great ideal. I consider myself a very strong advocate of artistic expressions. In my opinion, art allows people to express them selves and show their feeling in a visual way. In addition, art can be a very relaxing and soothing activity. I also think that people with disabilities should not be exclude from the benefits of art on the contrary people with disabilities should be strongly encourage to participate. I saw some of the artistic works done by the participants and most of them seem talented and with a lot of potential. I am glad this kind of recreational activates are available to people with disabilities and I think people in our community would benefit from a similar event.
Mariana GG
VSA arts as a venue for individuals with disabilities to display their work is indeed a good thing. I recently saw art in the form of drawings that were done by a man with Cerebral palsey. His art was created with an old style typewriter. All of the pictures were created using keys on the typewriter. He only had the use of his left hand and found that the symbol keys were the ones that he could use to create his works. I recall also the film "My Left Foot" where a man with Cerebral Palsey could only use his left foot for written expression. He was self taught and became a writer. Individuals with disabilities are in many ways like persons without disabilities, some have talent and some do not. Some have great ranges of emotions and then with talent can create amazing dance pieces, paintings, poetry, wrting, sculpture, and yes evey typewriter art. Russell A 10 of 12
I think it is great that an organization like this was created, and I absolutely agree with the VSA’s four essential principles regarding programming and initiatives. The principles state that “every young person with a disability deserves access to high quality arts learning experiences”, “all artists in schools and art educators should be prepared to include students with disabilities in their instruction”, “all children, youth, and adults with disabilities should have complete access to cultural facilities and activities”, and that “all individuals with disabilities who aspire to careers in the arts should have the opportunity to develop appropriate skills.” As a proponent of art, I feel that non-profit organizations like these are magnificent. The inclusion of individuals with disabilities in all aspects of art, whether it be creating art or enjoying art, is a right that all individuals should have as it opens one’s mind.
Matthew V.
The idea that an international nonprofit organization such as VSA Arts attempts to create a society for people with disabilities to learn about is very thoughtful. As I read the blog, I wondered if there were more organizations as such. In fact, I found it interesting that they have created a Network of Independent Self Employed Disabled Artists. People find different ways of expressing themselves and socializing with people similar to them. Art can also be used as a form of therapy. Some believe that art can help people with disabilities have a sense of accomplishment and explore more about themselves and their abilities. When we think of art, many think about only paintings, however, art has been used as a means of expression, including music, literature, sculpture, visual arts, poetry, and painting. It’s interesting to find out the various types of ways people with disabilities and those without can benefit in an attempt to express themselves and communicate their emotions through art. Hopefully there is more people out there that can agree and use this as a means of helping others.
Janneth A.
I am totally for the VSA arts it not just a great idea, but a way to also atracct people that love art. I believe there should be more organizations like the VSA arts that will with people with disabilities.
Raquel M
Amazing!! This is a great idea!! Art is not only a painting or sculpture but is a way of expressing how one may feel or encourage others to explore what they see or feel... art can grasp a variety of culture and races that involve us as individuals to imagine and create our own thoughts! allowing people with disabilities to explore and actually participate is wonderful.. It not only brings talent out but truly allowes people with disabilities to feel just like any other painter/ artist!
joelia n.
This is a great idea and I am glad there are associations and programs helping people with disabilities get their dreams and talents across. Art is a great way to express your thoughts and feelings.
Andrea V.
I think the VSA is a great idea. It's so cool. It's nice for PWD- it's a way to express themselves. Actually, it's nice for the entire community, there should be emphasize on organization like these, so that more people can know about them. It really is a great idea.
Rosario G.
I really agree with VSA arts because it creates more opportunities to those people that love to express themselves throughout art. Many people are going to benifit from VSA and hopefully more good ideas and events are planned soon. Rocio D.
I really like this what the VSA is doing. This is a really god opportunity for people with disabilities and those who don't have a disability. It's a way to show how people feel and it will help out persons with disabilites show how they are feeling.
Alma D.
Blog 10
In the first art work shown by Henri Matisse, 1940's, it is a shame that society views disability as the most salient aspect of a PWD and do not see other aspects of that person. In the second piece of art work by Harry Taylor, "Wheelchair Follies," I found that even with the passing of ADA in 1990 there is still the struggle to get society to comply with it. As the picture depicts, PWD are still being fed to the sharks. What came to mind in the third piece of art by Genny Zbach was that PWD are not allowed to express emotions they are expected by society to be mourning the loss (psychodynamic variables). In the picture, the PWD is smiling which society expects them to do otherwise PWD would be seen as angry or in denial. Of course, the negative attitudes that prevail in society would also view a PWD smiling as in denial too. While viewing the art work by Charmaine G. Brown, the social model came to mind. PWD want to be recognized as human beings and not just a broken body living stormy depressed lives. In the art by Susan Chambers, I agree that is important for PWD to stand up for the rights and have access to museums and have the right to express their artistic talent. I agree with her statement that “talent and quality should be the most important criteria in judging their work.” In the art work by Tiny Tim from 'A Christmas Carol', I have to agree with the comments on this piece of work. The negative, discriminatory, stigmatizing, and prejudicial attitudes that society has toward PWD are impacted by the media. The media impacts societal negative attitudes about PWD by portraying them as evil or people to be pitied. Even if the media attempts to portray PWD in a positive light, they still tend to portray them as superheroes or people with supernatural abilities. Finally, I wish I had the time to comment on all of the pieces of art but I just want to say that I think that this VSA Art website is an awesome idea and a way to educate the public about PWD.
Diana F.
I am glad to see an organization such as VSA Arts. I believe that Art is one of the greatest ways a person can express themselves. I believe Art can come from anyone talented or not. Drawing a picture or just a splash of paint is wonderful. Some of the best artists come from a disability background whether it is physical or mental disabilities. Some of the Art done by these individuals are incredable. They have some of the best talents in the world. I am sure whether they use their hands or feet it is a miracle come to live. For people who love to see Art there is always a story behind each picture and it tells who the artist is and shows how talented they are. Being able to witness an art creation from VSA is both imaginable and incredible. I am also a strong advocate for both Art and Disability therefore, I am also very happy to see that this recreational active exists. People are finally coming around and recognizing the Disability community it has been a long time coming. Again, some of the most famous paintings were created by persons with a disability.Igarza
I think VSA is awesome for artistic expressions. There are people that they express their emotions and thoughts by painting, i am one of them. It is wonderful when we have the opportunity to express ourselves in a artistic way.It is important for people with disabilities to find a way to entertain their mind, and have a beautiful talent or hobby to express their ideas and what really is in their hearts.
Claudia P.
I agree with comments made by others on this topic. It is important that arts by people with disabilty not be limited to the category of "arts by disabled people, but that they are also seen as artistic expression, as valid and beautiful as those by anobody
Davidw reaction blog
I believe that VSA provides an excellent opportunity for people with disabilites to expres themselves in an artistic form. It would be of greater benefits if local chapter would be established around the country. Unfortunatly not many people are aware of such organizations such as VSA and may not draw the benefits from it. Paty C
This was a really good idea VSA art. Doing art or any kind of art for that matter can be very soothing and relaxing to the soul and mind. To see that people with disabilities are being included makes the activity even better because sometimes other people make them out to be poor souls who do not have the capability to do anything of this sort. This kind of event would be very beneficial to those of all communities and it would even be better if it were an activity for all not only those who are disabled or those who are not. The artistic drawings by those with disabilities were great and inspiring to me. They are a great motivation to all those who feel that they are not able to do something.
-anisa c
I believe that the VSA arts was a wonderful idea. People got to see how great pwd can work. Art expresses feelings in some ways and it was a great way to try and see what they saw in each art. I think that people should make more organizations as this and people would very much appreciate it. I saw some art of theirs and they are very well and I enjoyed them.
-Crisina Lo.
I love what Janneth A. said, "Art can also be used as a form of therapy. Some believe that art can help people with disabilities have a sense of accomplishment and explore more about themselves and their abilities." This is true and VSA art as a means for PWD to educate the public about PWD. PWD are people just like those without disabilities. When you really think about it, no-one is perfect. We all as human beings have one disability or more. Who are we to judge who is disabled or not. If you don't believe me, wait until you are after the age of 30 and watch disability slowly set in. We are all human beings sharing the same planet so just accept people as they are with or without their visual or obvious disabilities.
Diana F.
Blog 12
What is it going to take to make people with or without disabilities to realize that we are all human beings with our limitations? Why is it that people with obvious disabilities are singled out as so different and to be treated as indifferent? Why are not we all just acceptable of our differences? Isn’t this the very thing that keeps life interesting and fun? Suppose we were all the same…how robotic that seems. Life would be so boring if we all looked alike, talked alike, and behaved alike. Why is it so hard for human beings sharing the same planet earth to accept different cultures and the wonderful diversity of humanity? This entire power seeking and controlling attitude that most of this world has adopted is getting nowhere. It’s all leading to the same mentality like little psycho men with little penis’ such as Hitler adhere to and that try dominate and exhort themselves. Even before Hitler ordered, “The Final Solution,” to annihilate the Jews, he murdered 300,000 Germans with disabilities including German veterans. By the same token, little penis-psychopaths such as Hitler, try to gain political power by attacking those less fortunate. I believe in Karma too and if that exists then I only wish that the very people that are prohibiting those with disabilities from expressing themselves, acquire the very disabilities that they are so prejudiced against. It is difficult enough coming to terms with a newly acquired disability and on top of it all, having to deal with stupid people that just don’t accept people with obvious disabilities. Leave these PWD alone and let them move on with their lives! If they want to express themselves with art and publish their art, then so be it! Either the public is basically ignorant about PWD or they are just plain stupid. I say GO! Press forward with your cause and keep on asserting yourselves all you PWD – your cause is worthy and your art is BEAUTIFUL!!! For those with disabilities reading this, your handicap is society. Because they are creating handicaps for you, you have more of a reason to fight for your rights and let your voice be heard. Congratulations on your 25th year anniversary. Blessings!!!
Diana F.
Organizations like VSA arts are wonderful way to expose people and educate them on disability. Not only that but a place where other artist with disabilities can get together and learn from each other. Art has a way of making people equal no matter if you have a disability or not, art does not reflect that you do or do not have a disability. An artist can express so much in one painting. Tell a story, or send a message. Art is a way of communicating with out language or prejudice of the painter. One of my most favorite artists is Chuck Close. He just happens to be a person with a disability. You can see some of his incredible art work at http://www.chuckclose.coe.uh.edu/life/index.html.
Cameron L.
I really like the idea of art for individual who has a disability. I really apprciate that there are good organizations and agencies that help and want to help individuals who are disable.
Jenny G.
I find this interesting coming from a family of little piccasos. My mother having been an art teacher herself, my sister having created a small web comic a few years ago, and myself dabbling in sketching and what not. I also vaguely remember an HBO special about some rather good art created by a small group of people who lived in an metal asylum where "art" was part of the therapy, and I must say they did some interesting and good stuff. I even spent most of the weekend recently with a friend who herself has her own mental disabilities painting with her. She is currently working on her first acrylic painting of Grr from the short lived tv show "Invader Zim" which I might say is coming out just fine. maybe the VSA arts is something we could have here in the Valley in conjunction with the annual "Art Walk" where people with disabilities could show case their own art along side other would be artiest....no?
Chris W.
12 of 12 FINALLY
I believe this an excellent idea because this provides people with disabilities to be able to express themselves. I have seen many people with disabilities that can only paint with the brush held with their mouth or holding it with their feet and they make beautiful paintings! I think this just wonderful and it will have a good outcome not only for PWD but also the rest of society!
-Brandon R.
THe VSA arts is a great way for individuals with cross disability to express their thoughts and feelings. Art tells stories and sends messages that some individuals with disabilites might not otherwise be able to express. THe colors that some use can have meaning for example if one uses lots of red in a picture it could mean the individual is angry or needs to express off some stress. I have seen some of the arts online and i really strongly support this non profit organization.
Emede R
I agree with Matthew V.on how the VSA's four essential principles regarding programming are understandable. I do feelthat every person should have equal access to high quality learning of thier choice.I also agree on how educators should include students with disabilities to participate in all activities of interest.
Caleb B.
I love this idea of the VSA arts, it is such a great way people can express themselves and show for it. People with disabilites have many talents and i feel that this is a way someone that doesn't like to show that talents they have or might be shy/ anti-social, can express themselves. There are many beautiful things that can be done in the catergory of art, and i think this is a great idea. I actually want to speak with this idea to my club and see if we can get people to do this at our university.
Jennifer G.
I love the fact that the VSA arts offers this amazing oppurtunity for many people to go and be free and enjoy themselves. It is an awesome idea having people with disabilities also enjoy themselves or have a good time with others and be able to socialize and not be judged. Organizations like this one is really great because it brings people together and everyone enjoys and relaxes while having a good time meeting one another.
Tracy S.
I think the VSA is an awesome idea!! Art is a great way to express yourself and everyone should be allowed no matter what. This is a great opportunity for people with disabilities to express themselves! Love the idea.
Alma R.
This is so neat! Art is a huge way of display and expression in a beautiful way! My uncle is an artist and its just amazing to me how people can go deep inside them and create something so wonderful that touches people that reaches out to people from the painting, the sculpture, that piece of art! I'm pretty sure the art is a way to release what goes on inside and also to show people who one is. The site is so amazing i love alot of the pieces- the metal person in a wheelchair sculpture, the wired man with a red light, the man in a wheelchair inside a crate- I can see so much emotion. It's great!
Crystal O.
I think its great what the VSA is doing here. Its great that we are hearing of more and more programs that they are offering to people with disabilities. It allows and expands the things they are able to do and it shows us how talented they are in all areas. Art is a great way to express your thoughts and feelings and its great that we get to see people with disabilities doing that.
Crystal M.
I think any organization that helps people with disabilites is great, but thirs one is awesome! Art may not only be a hobby for many people but a way of expressing how they feel. Now many people will get across others by their art and encourage other people to participate.
Alejandrina T.
anyway for people to express themselves is awesome, and the fact that it helps the people with disability is a bonus.
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Estefanita G.
Its great that Jean Kennedy Smith founded VSA Arts for people with disabilities to take part of. Since art is all around us, having this organization will be of great benefit to teach people with disabilities about it, as well as participate in it.
Sarah O.
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