On April 27, Delawareans with disabilities and University of Delaware student volunteers teamed up to paint their own tropical island paradises at Artfest, a celebration of community and creativity.
Now in its 12th year, Artfest is a collaboration of the Center for Disabilities Studies, Art Therapy Express and the New Castle County Department of Community Services.
“Since life is a celebration, we are holding a painting party,” said Lisa Bartoli of Art Therapy Express. Each Artfest participant received a canvas and followed along as Bartoli demonstrated painting the island scene. After finishing the basics of beach, sea and sky, artists personalized their pieces by adding figures, flora and the like.
This is a change from previous Artfests, which featured multiple art projects. This time, Bartoli says, participants got the chance to enjoy and craft, unhurried, a more involved piece. “It’s a success-oriented project,” she said, where participants will get to come home with “one thing to be really proud of.”
The event also offers participants like Ebony Tucker the opportunity to form bonds with UD student volunteers, such as Chloe Weissman. “When I heard about this year’s Artfest,” said Tucker, “the first thing I did was ask Chloe if she was coming. Oh my gosh, that girl is amazing.”
The pair bonded last year over marble painting and other artistic pursuits. “We spent a little while getting to know each other,” said Weissman, a UD education major. “Then it was just like hanging out with an old friend.”
“There’s an instant connection,” said Bartoli. “I think the art builds that bridge.”
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12th Annual Artfest