VSA, or the Very Special Arts, is an international organization that focuses on art and disabilities. The purpose of this non-profit organization is to create a society where people with disabilities learn through,participate in and enjoy the arts. Jean Kennedy Smith is the founder of VSA.
Marquis Studios is a 38‐year‐old nonprofit organization providing arts‐in‐education services to more than 100 New York City public schools. Working with a diverse population, 78% of programs serve students living at or below the poverty line with 44% of all programming serving children with disabilities. They offer a full spectrum of residencies which encourages student exploration of visual arts, theater, music, dance, architecture, circus arts and puppetry. Their goal is to develop a passion for creative learning in each and every child allowing students to reach their full potential. Marquis Studios is a 2nd year Partner with National Inclusion Project.
Together, these two outstanding organizations have announced “A Year In Pictures”, an art exhibition featuring the work of NYC Public School children with disabilities. There will be a private viewing and awards ceremony on November 24, 2015 from 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM. at the Pratt Manhattan Gallery. This special event will include VSA Founder, Jean Kennedy Smith and recognizes Mr. Clay Aiken, City Council Members, and student artists. The exhibit is part of the ongoing celebrations of VSA’s 40th Anniversary, promoting art by and for people with disabilities.
Congratulations to all that are involved in this wonderful event. It sounds like this will be an exciting time for the students, the teachers, and those who support the organizations. For more information on the exhibit, please visit MARQUISSTUDIOS
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We were lucky to be able to get some screen caps and two YouTubes from Sunday’s The Third Rail. This is one of the popular news discussions shows on Al Jazeera America. The panel discussion on Sunday included Clay Aiken, Carrie Sheffield, and Jessica Pond and was moderated by Ali Velshi. Please check Monday’s blog for more information on the show.
A big thank-you to msidolfan for the following screen caps.
The following You Tubes were put up by panel member, Carrie Sheffield
I enjoyed the panel discussions. Each person had something to add to the conversation.
Clay was prepared and spoke with passion about the topics. I hope he will be asked back for another discussion.
