Metro Detroit art program creates community for people with disabilities
ROCHESTER HILLS, Mich. (CBS DETROIT) - Art is a personal form of expression that knows no boundaries when it comes to ability or physical limitations.
That's the idea behind a creative, community-based program that brings people together to create miracles through paint.
"Everything is exhilarating and exciting, and everyone would love to be in an art studio," said Matt Cooney, an art student at Paint A Miracle.
Cooney loves art. The same goes for his friend, Crystal Brooklier.
"I love doing art class," said Brooklier.
The two are part of a group creating artwork for sale. This time, it's hot wax, but they've also worked with "clay and paints and crayons and really anything that you can think of that requires art," said Max Meidl.
The masterpieces are created at Paint A Miracle in Rochester Hills.
"Paint a Miracle is an art studio for children and adults living with disabilities. And our main goal is to give all of our artists the experience of creating their art being part of a community of artists, and then exhibiting and selling their art throughout the community," said Shelly Propson Lennon, the executive director of Paint A Miracle.
Lennon says that art is expression, and everyone, regardless of circumstance, has something to say.
"We communicate a lot through our creativity and through our artwork," she said. "I feel that people who are living with special needs or disabilities are people who have faced challenges and overcome obstacles that they have really something important to say. And they say it from a perspective that we don't hear about otherwise."
Art is expressive, but the class is also about fun.
"It's a lot of fun. It's very creative, and it's mostly about inspiration and having a good time in our studio," said Cooney.
"I think the best part is all of the friendly people here who help support your ideas," added Meidl.
Paint a Miracle is bringing together the best of both worlds.
"The artwork that comes out of Paint A Miracle is just really unique. It's really happy. It's beautiful. And it says something," said Lennon.
If you would like to donate space for an art exhibit or sponsor an artist, click here.