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As artist Keith Haring once said, “Art is for everybody.” A new art exhibit now on display in the University Medical Center cafeteria is a beautiful reminder of this — that art has the power to transcend language, status, and background. That creativity lives in all of us. 

The show, titled “Creative Forces; Community Connections,” is a partnership between UVA Health and The Arc of the Piedmont. On display starting Friday, Aug. 1, it is the first in a series of art installations featuring artwork from adults with a range of developmental disabilities who belong to The Arc Studio. This visual arts program and studio space is located at The Arc of the Piedmont, which has been supporting and advocating for people with developmental disabilities and their families for more than 60 years.

Many of the artists who create art with The Arc Studio do not communicate through spoken or written language. “We see artmaking as a very rich and meaningful opportunity for these individuals to express themselves, to communicate and connect with other people through the language of art,” says Amy Keenan-Amago, Founder and Director of The Arc Studio. 

Every piece of art tells a story, and for Arc Studio artist D.J. Rush, that story is one of self-discovery. "When I make art, I feel alive. I feel good. I feel special. I feel wanted. I feel happy. I feel joy. It's a beautiful thing,” he says. “The artwork has come a long way because I came a long way with it."

By showcasing this work out in the community, The Arc Studio is “helping the artists not only develop their identities as fine artists but also expanding the public’s notion of the creative and intellectual capacities of people with developmental disabilities,” says Keenan-Amago.

This exhibit also reflects the broader goal of the UVA Health Arts Program. Since becoming manager of the program four years ago, Anne Brown has worked to shine a light on hidden talent within our community by giving artists a platform to show their work. 

In addition to The Arc of the Piedmont, Brown has initiated partnerships with organizations like Albemarle County Public Schools and has displayed works from UVA Health staff along hospital halls. “Our mission has been to broaden the scope of the art we're purchasing and collaborating with our community to bring community art into the health system,” she says. “It's been a labor of love.”

Brown and Keenan-Amago encourage UVA Health team members, patients, and guests to stop by the cafeteria to view the assortment of unique artwork on display through November. Should you fall in love with a piece of art, contact Keenan-Amago at akamago@arcpva.org. All proceeds go back to the artists; 50% is given to them directly and 50% is used to purchase more art supplies for The Arc Studio.

This collaboration between the UVA Health Arts Program and The Arc Studio will continue throughout the year, with new exhibits installed every four months. Each display offers an opportunity to celebrate these talented artists and the power of art to unite us.