By: Elizabeth Turner
Ten charcoal drawings created by local artists with disabilities will be showcased in the Frist Art Museum in early 2019. “Artworks from the Swaney Art Workshop at the Metro Parks disABILITIES Day Program” will debut on January 7 and run through January 20 in the museum’s Upper Level Corridor.
A recent VKC Notables article shared details of the art workshops, made possible by a posthumous gift from artist and VKC supporter Mary Jane Swaney to the VKC Arts & Disabilities Program. The program had previously collaborated with the Metro Parks disABILITIES Day Program to arrange a series of art workshops for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), the art produced then creating its own art exhibit, titled By Land, By Sea, By Air! The exhibit was showcased in the VKC lobby in Summer 2017.
In March 2018, a second cohort of 18 new and returning participants with disabilities began meeting for classes at the Sportsplex next to Centennial Park. Led by artist Kat Kennedy, the participants explored the workshop’s theme, Residue and Renewal, by practicing art with various media such as charcoal, tape-resist painting, faux batik with indigo dye, and still-life photography.
Some pieces from the workshop went on display at the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for its Creative Expressions XXIV exhibit, while others were reserved for the art exhibit at the Frist.
“I’m so proud that the VKC and Metro Parks were able to provide these workshops thanks to Mrs. Swaney’s generous gift,” said Laurie Fleming, who serves as facilitator of the VKC Arts & Disabilities Program. We will continue to share this artwork and provide more opportunities for artists to create.”
The Frist Art Museum is located at 919 Broadway in midtown Nashville. Hours are from 10:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays; 10:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays; 10:00 a.m.- 5:30 p.m. on Saturdays; and 1:00-5:30 p.m. on Sundays.
Last Updated: 12/20/2018 9:35:33 AM
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