Nurturing Independence Through Artistic Development

Heather Hamann

I found out about the NIAD Art Center through reviewing the Billy White exhibition currently on at Shrine NYC, and I wanted to share a bit more about what they’re doing. The NIAD art center provides studio space and mentorship for adult artists with disabilities. Working with textiles, clay, and paint, the artists at NIAD acquire artistic and independent living skills, profiting off their work and building connections with contemporary art galleries. Some of the artists here have gone on to show at the Whitney Museum. The work, varying in medium, style, and subject matter, reminds us of the value of art – self-expression as a source of pride, independence, and a means to connect with others. Here are a few of our favourite pieces currently available for sale at NIAD. -CM

Karen May
Shantae Robinson
Heather Hamann
Darlene Farr
Saul Alegria
Michael Nunez
Shana Harper
Shana Harper