Art & Soul celebrates the boundless spectrum of human expression, transcending limitations and abilities. Erin Dees, its event chair, says “I love that it brings out a talent in practically everyone no matter their disability or skill level. Art is something that everyone can benefit from, and this event benefits all of Easterseals Arkansas.”
On Tuesday, November 6th, this gathering takes place at the Christ the King Catholic Church’s Family Life Center. The event takes pride in showcasing artwork from Easterseals A.R.T. Program participants alongside contributions from local, regional, and national artists. The A.R.T. Program, short for Artistic Realization Technologies, offers a lifeline for children and adults with limited use of their arms and hands.
Empowering the Imagination Through A.R.T.
Within this program, artists forge their creative path using a remarkable method. They collaborate with “trackers” who serve as the hands and arms of the artists, guided by their directives. This innovative approach, often employing a laser attached to a headpiece, enables individuals with disabilities to craft unique and awe-inspiring paintings.
Erin Dees, a kindergarten teacher by day and the driving force behind Art & Soul for nearly eight years understands the transformative power of art. She also runs her art-centered business, Deesigns by Erin, offering paint classes for both children and adults.
For Erin, Art & Soul is an opportunity to broaden people’s understanding and appreciation of the invaluable work Easterseals does for individuals with disabilities. She further added, ” hope that they will leave with some really great original artwork.”
The Inspirational Journey of Miracle Mark
This year, Art & Soul features the extraordinary journey of Mark, an A.R.T. artist. Eight years ago, Mark was a thriving college senior at the University of Central Arkansas, with a promising future ahead. He was deeply involved in youth ministry at New Life Church and gearing up for a mission trip to Guatemala after graduation. However, fate took an unexpected turn on November 21, 2010, when he suffered a traumatic brain injury.
Mark, lovingly known as “Miracle Mark,” returned home seven months later with his life radically altered. He could neither speak, eat, follow directions, nor control his physical body. It was a life-altering event that shook his world to its core.
The Birth of A.R.T. and an Incredible Transformation
One of Mark’s close friends, Mary Lynn Nelson, became an instrumental figure in his recovery journey. It was Mary Lynn who introduced the A.R.T. program to Easterseals Arkansas. Witnessing Mark participate in this program left his family in awe as they watched him, against all odds, listen and follow directions.
The A.R.T. program empowered Mark to make decisions with a newfound sense of purpose—an ability he had once taken for granted before the accident.
Art & Soul is not just a celebration of art; it’s a lifeline for individuals like Mark. The event’s proceeds contribute to the A.R.T. Program, ensuring that it continues to be a beacon of hope and transformation for those in need. Additionally, the funds raised also support the thousands of children and adults benefiting from Easterseals Arkansas’ educational and therapy programs.
A Night of Fun, Inspiration, and Creativity
Erin Dees sums up the spirit of Art & Soul as a fun and casual event. It promises a treasure trove of art for both live and silent auctions. Beyond the art, attendees can immerse themselves in the heartwarming stories of Easterseals patrons and leave with not only a deeper understanding of their work but also some truly remarkable original artwork.To be part of this extraordinary celebration and make a difference in lives like Mark’s, visit www.artandsoulevent.org for tickets and more information. Art & Soul isn’t just an event; it’s an invitation to unleash the power of creativity, compassion, and transformation.
