Challenged artists find A New Dimension

Oct. 11, 2009

Challenged Artists Find
A New Dimension
10/12/09
Artists coping with physical, emotional and cognitive challenges will have their moment of glory this Sunday with a chance to participate in an art exhibit entitled “A New Dimension” at the BATA Transfer Station in downtown Traverse City.
“The exhibit is an opportunity to unify artists who live day-to-day with challenges, along with a chance for the public to meet them and celebrate their abilities and talents,” said organizer Michelle St. Amant.
The event will feature an artists’ reception from 12:30-3:30 p.m. with a performance by jazz guitarist Ron Getz. A donation of $5 will be accepted at the door.
All proceeds from the exhibit will
benefit Andre’s Place, a program established by
St. Amant in memory of her son. Born with a rare genetic disorder, Andre grew to develop mental impairments, scoliosis, autism and a severe seizure disorder in his teens. He fell victim to fatal seizures at the age of 18.
The exhibit is open to artists 18 and older who are living with challenges. Entry forms for art in all mediums are available at the BATA Transfer Station on Hall Street; Disability Network on State St.; The Art of Framing and Gallery on 14th St. and DeYoung’s Art Supply on E. Front St.
One artist exhibiting will be Kristin Moody, who didn’t realize she had Asperger’s syndrome (a form of autism) until she was diagnosed as an adult. She had other challenges as well while growing up: At the age of four, she began receiving daily growth hormone injections for nine years to reach her current height of 5‘4“. She had a tumor removed from behind her ear at six and had surgery to raise her ribcage off her heart and lungs at age 12. At 23, she had her first real part-time job as an art assistant to artist Angela Schuler’s and her workshop series “Children’s Art for Autism.”
But through the years, Kristin found solace and liberation in her artwork, including a fanciful series of computer-drawn “Merfolk” mixing the forms of human beings with creatures of the sea. She’s one of many artists that St. Amant hopes to bring together in the spirit of sharing and creativity.
St. Amant is organizing the exhibit to commemorate her son Andre and his love of the arts, including music, movies and humor. Andre’s Place will offer a studio, art materials, instruction and a gallery in in a supportive environment for challenged artists, ages 18 and older.

“A New Dimension” is open to the public, Sunday, Oct. 18 from 12:30-3:30 p.m. at the BATA Transfer Station, 115 Hall St., Traverse City.