AccessCNY in Syracuse is partnering with the College of Visual and Performing Arts’ 914Works to present “AccessVoices,” an empowering art show that celebrates the work of artists with disabilities and mental health conditions.
One of the works in “AccessVoices”
An opening reception will be held on Thursday, Aug. 31, from 6-8 p.m. at 914Works, 914 E. Genesee St., Syracuse, and the show will be on view through Friday, Sept. 15. The exhibition is free and open to the public.
“AccessVoices” showcases unique artists with and without disabilities who want to have their work seen and voices heard.
“The whole idea is to allow people with disabilities and mental health conditions, who might not normally get gallery space, a chance to showcase their projects and express themselves,” says Scott Rose, director of 914Works. “For 914Works and the college, this show is about reaching out and doing something good for our community, as well as the art.”
For AccessCNY, a local organization providing services to people with disabilities, the partnership just made sense.
“When I first heard of the opportunity for program participants to showcase the great art pieces they have been working on, I was immediately excited. It isn’t always easy for us to get gallery space, and it means a lot for people to be able to express themselves and be heard,” says Matt Seubert, associate executive director of development and communications. “And, of course, this show is also a chance for many of our different programs to come together, which is a great thing to see.”
AccessCNY has several programs that involve art, including the recently renovated David Clark Learning Center, whose membership will be a significant part of the show. The center’s members will be joined by program participants from Community Habilitation, Harmony in the Home, Community Support Services and Supported Education—a variety of both mental health and developmental disability programs.
Regular gallery hours are Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information about the show, contact Seubert at 315.657.0133. To contact 914Works, email 914works@syr.edu.
