Pieces of Heart Art Program

Pieces of Heart is a creative expression program of Upstate Cerebral Palsy that was started in 2005 featuring artistic works in a variety of media.  The agency’s multi-talented individuals who create these artworks have one thing in common - they are all people with differing abilities.  The artists work in watercolor, acrylics, mixed media, and recycled materials.  Three dimensional art includes sculpture, print making, pottery, quilting and textiles.  Art provides individuals with opportunities to express their thoughts and feelings, and also increases public awareness of the talents and creativity of those with special needs. 

In 2011, because of the interest of the individuals, their undeniable talent and the obvious benefits of being able to express themselves in a creative way, two new programs were created under the umbrella of Pieces of Heart, the Studio Art Learning Program and Artistic Realization Technologies (A.R.T).

The Studio Art Learning Program is designed to offer art projects and classes for all levels of artistic abilities in a day program setting. The Artists learn and explore a variety of art methods and mediums.

The Artistic Realization Technologies (A.R.T) program is an art expression program designed specifically for individuals with disabilities that allows them to express their creative energies by painting with the aid of a Tracker (studio assistant).  Designed for individuals with limited or no use of their hands, as well as limited or no vocabulary, the artists use a laser or point system to direct where and what the Tracker should paint. The Tracker is trained to be completely driven by the artist and the painting reflects the artist’s intention completely, with no influence from the Tracker.

Please join us for our upcoming Pieces of Heart Exhibits! Click <here> for more information.

***The video on the A.R.T. Program in the sidebar to the right ran nationally on CBS Evening News.