---

ATTLEBORO - You've no doubt heard of Special Olympians - the many enthusiastic athletes who perform in a variety of sports competitions through the Special Olympics organization.

But, how about "Special Artists?"

Through a collaboration that began in 2007 between the Attleboro Arts Museum and the Arc of Northern Bristol County, many Arc clients have been recognized for artwork they created through a variety of art programs at the museum.

Fourteen such artists were recognized just this past Friday evening at a spotlight exhibit and reception entitled "Arc of Northern Bristol County Student Clay Work."

Through the Museum-Arc collaboration, the students, Arc clients from age 18 and up, spent 11 weeks working with Attleboro Arts Museum Arts-Educator Sandi Carter Brown learning the joy of clay and hand-building. The artwork created by the Arc clients resulted in about 30 pieces, including imaginative pots, vessels and sculptures based on animal forms.

The exhibit was just one example of the talent that has emerged from these special artists, however, as the Museum-Arc collaboration also has included five other art programs since 2007, with very favorable results, according to organizers.

"The Attleboro Arts Museum's mission includes involving audiences of all ages and backgrounds in the visual arts," said Museum Executive Director Mim Fawcett. "We reach out to all organizations, and work to bring arts experiences to everyone.

Noting that each new art student is a reminder of how the arts can be a powerful vehicle for expression, Fawcett said the students from the Arc of Northern Bristol County are no exception.

"One of our first collaborations was on a project funded by United Way of Greater Attleboro/Taunton," Fawcett said.

"This wonderful and high-profile effort resulted in a sculptural installation at Attleboro's city hall. The pride was so enormous during the installation dedication that all supporters could barely fit in the room," she said.

"Art requires courage to step out and make a statement. Our Arc students took a leap, worked hard and showed that they are fabulous thinkers and art-makers."

Arc staff members echo Fawcett's sentiments in noting the importance of involving their clients in creative projects.

"Art gives people with disabilities a powerful means of self-expression and communication," said Michael Andrade, president and chief executive officer of The Arc of Northern Bristol County.

"We find that art helps to bring out emotions, and (people) also take great pride in their creations." Troy Hixon, coordinator of the Arc program "Rec-Connect," through which Arc clients are involved in such social activities, notes the additional benefits of the art programs.

"The creative collaboration between the Arc and The Attleboro Arts Museum has been a successful project, where Arc individuals have enjoyed the experience by creating artwork with their hands - whether through paint or by ceramics," Hixon said. "All students have shown a tremendous confidence increase since working in the arts."

As for how well the clients enjoyed participating in the art program at the museum, their comments say it all.

"I liked making the clay animals and other projects and enjoyed being taught how to make the clay projects, said Diana M. "I also enjoyed the teacher Sandi. She was extremely nice and attentive to us all."

Kelly C said, "It was awesome! I loved it! It was so much fun and relaxing to be with friends, and also I could take out stress in the day. I want to do it again."

Ann G also wanted to go again and said, "I enjoyed myself making different projects with the clay. I enjoyed the clay teacher."

Organizers at the museum and the Arc would like nothing better than to see these and other special artists participate in more art programs, as noted by Fawcett.

"Future collaborations are always in the making," Fawcett said. "We appreciate the commitment that the Arc has to the individuals it serves and look forward to colorful projects that highlight this talented group."

Past joint efforts

The Creative Collaborations between the Arc of Northern Bristol County and the Attleboro Arts Museum that have taken place to date are as follows:

"Wire Wonderland" - The Art of Collaboration/A Community of Artists Enliven Our Landscape. Figurative wire sculptures were installed in Attleboro's City Hall.

"Handbuilding and the Potters Wheel" - Students learned the various techniques of hand-building and an introduction to the Potter's wheel.

"Paint, Paint, Paint" - Exploration of ways to make art and learn about famous artists.

"Arc April Vacation Full-Day Camp," for Arc clients from ages 6-10 - Students experimented with the art of bookmaking.

"Handbuilding and the Potter's Wheel" - Hand-building and an introduction to the Potter's wheel.

Janette Sears can be reached by phone or fax at 508-222-0993 or by e-mail at janette.boulay@gmail.com.