Physical disability does not diminish creativity

Society has, in general, underestimated the capabilities of people with disabilities. For decades, most of some 54,000,000 Americans with disabilities too often have been viewed as incapable of working, caring for themselves, or making contributions to their families and communities.

The Muscular Dystrophy Association Art Collection was established in 1992 to show that physical disability is no barrier to creativity and to broaden public knowledge of the achievements of individuals with disabilities. The Collection, on permanent display at MDA National Headquarters in Tucson, Ariz., comprises some 300 original works by adults and children who have any of the neuromuscular disorders in MDA's program. Artists represent all 50 states and range in age from 2 to 82. The Collection features a varied artistic media, from computer designs to collages, as well as traditional oils, watercolors, acrylics, pen and ink, pastels, bronzes, ceramics, and photography. Subject matter ranges from self-portraits to landscapes and from still lifes to outer space fantasies.

The Collection proves that the arts can help build bridges of understanding and acceptance. In this environment of positive change, a vital message is being sent--physical disability does not diminish creativity.

The exhibition, "Transcending Barriers: Selections from the MDA Art Collection," on view at The Sheldon Art Galleries, St. Louis, Mo., through Feb. 4, features 36 selected works by children, including acrylics and watercolors, as well as pen and ink art, crayon, digitally enhanced media, mixed media, and masks.

Children's art either is created individually and donated or produced at MDA-sponsored workshops and summer camps. Some 50 workshops have been organized in conjunction with art museums and galleries nationwide.

"The art created by the brilliant and talented people represented in our Collection is a source of inspiration to all of us," praises Robert Moss, MDA president and CEO. "The Collection not only stands on its own artistic merit, but it also serves to underscore the creativity of people with disabilities and the indomitable spirit of those we serve."

The Muscular Dystrophy Association is a voluntary health agency working to defeat 40 neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services, and far-reaching professional and public health education.

Dates and venues for the rest of this year's "Transcending Barriers" exhibition tour have yet to be finalized, although it can be viewed at the Children's Museum of Houston, March 9, 2007-July 29, 2007.

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