We All have Abilities

I just found out yesterday that my painting We All have Abilities is being purchased for the traveling exhibit by VSA Wisconsin*, I am thrilled!

Here is my artist statement about this painting:

We all have abilities!

I did this painting because, when I became a person with a disability, I felt invisible and discounted.

People may look away from me, not see me, or see only my impairment. I am more.

People are not defined by their disabilities. They are so much more. Each person has wonderful abilities and deserves to be treated with respect and inclusion. Discover their abilities.

This painting shows a variety of people including Stevie Wonder.We all have abilities!

Susan Wendell had some profound thoughts about physical disabilities:

"Not only do physically disabled people have experiences which are not available to the able-bodied, they are in a better position to transcend cultural mythologies about the body, because they cannot do things the able-bodied feel they must do in order to be happy, 'normal,' and sane....If disabled people were truly heard, an explosion of knowledge of the human body and psyche would take place." - Susan Wendell

I am honored! I am thrilled to be a part of this traveling exhibition! And, I hope this painting helps people to think, be aware, and include people with disabilities in their circles of friends and family!

Mauree

*The VSA Wisconsin is in Madison and is an awesome organization! This is who they are: VSA Wisconsin is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that uses dance, drama, creative writing, music, and visual art to celebrate the creative power and artistic accomplishments of children and adults with disabilities throughout Wisconsin. VSA Wisconsin’s choirs, artist residencies, and art classes and workshops provide an outlet for creative expression and unlimited possibilities for personal, academic, and professional success.