Can people with limited use of their hands still enjoy creating art? The answer, according to the Adaptive Art classes at UCP of Pittsburgh's UCP/CLASS, is a resounding "yes." One year ago, David Peters, a self-taught artist and instructor in UCP's Centre Services division, began confronting this question when he designed an art class specifically geared toward participants who had limited use of their hands because of a physical disability. With the help of his colleague, fellow instructor Brian Furman, Dave began teaching this class in January 2008 with five participants. The painting techniques and equipment they used included mouth sticks, paintbrushes specially attached at the wrist, and helmets with head pointers.
Before long, class participants became more confident as they witnessed their artwork unfold. As word spread to fellow students, interest grew, so much so that a second class was added in the fall of 2008. The number of students taking part in this class has now doubled. As the class grew, so did interest outside of the agency.
One such notable experience was the "Flowering of Insight" art exhibit in downtown Pittsburgh. Five UCP/CLASS artists exhibited 11 different paintings throughout the summer. At the close of the show, three artists had sold pieces of their work. Another event in October 2008, the Bank of New York Mellon Diversity Event, showcased 12 paintings by seven UCP/CLASS artists, with one painting sold at the conclusion of the event. Additionally, Bank of New York Mellon donated $500 to the art class to thank them for their participation.
In another effort to engage the community, the art class, deciding they wanted all their artwork showcased in one place in a format that could be purchased, designed a 2009 wall calendar which features several artists' work each month. Since inception, the calendars have sold at UCP's holiday party, been mailed to board members, and have been seen and enjoyed by many others.
As members of the art class gain more confidence in their abilities, they have been able to raise their own funds and create social capital through a variety of events and activities. At this point, the sky is the limit, but one thing is certain: class participants will continue enjoying the opportunity to express themselves through their artwork, an empowering activity which, at one time, was deemed by some as an impossible feat.
For more information on the UCP of Pittsburgh UCP/CLASS, contact Courtney Walker at (412) 683-7100 x2153 or visit the UCP of Pittsburgh Web site.
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