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'Hands That Touch the Heart': Special-needs art show goes up for sixth year

April 13, 2012|By JENNIFER BRUMMETT | jbrummett@amnews.com
  • Tye, from Hogsett Elementary, works on artwork for the Hands That Touch the Heart exhibit.
Photo submitted

Special needs children throughout the region are gearing up for their night to shine. The sixth annual “Hands That Touch the Heart” art show is presented at the Community Arts Center, with an artist reception set for Thursday.

“While working with our special (students), I am always touched by the fantastic art work and the genuine joy all these young people get from seeing their art displayed. It helps remind me to be joyful in all things, big and small, in life,” said Donna Decker, co-president of “Hands That Touch the Heart” art show.

Andrea Cass, president, began this exhibit in 2006. She said she wanted to offer special needs students the opportunity to express themselves. “This is truly their night to shine,” Cass noted, adding the exhibit continues to be at the Community Arts Center through the generosity of CAC executive director Mary Beth Touchstone.

Cass, a painter in her own right, said, “As a painter, (I) saw early through (my) own special needs daughter, Megan, that she loved to paint. The Community Arts Center’s Main gallery is filled with wonderful art from wall to wall. Each painting is truly unique and is inspired by these beautiful children and young adults.”

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In the past few years, Cass and Melissa Caudill have promised to keep the show going, despite how huge the undertaking is.

“It could not be done without the committed volunteers that really love these children and this event,” Cass said.

She added the show has grown beyond anything she could have imagined. Cass hopes it will continue for at least a few more years.  

“The reality is that these children will never (excel) in sports or get any academic accolades, so this is their night to be recognized,” Cass explained. “We thank our community for supporting this event, which has come to be the second largest event for the Art Center. As Bruce Caudill, a former participant, said a few years ago, ‘My art might be different to you, but I hope when you look at it you don’t think of me as different.’”

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