Amplifying voice, story and connection through creative expression.
Arts Programming within Developmental Disability Services exists to provide three main things: accessibility to the arts through exposure; creative artistic expression; and empowered interaction that brokers inclusivity, belonging & opportunity.
Heartshare's Arts Programming primarily comes to life through Artshare, a privately funded-arts program focused on bringing both performing and visual arts to Day Programming across the organization.
Artshare's unique model focuses its activities around three main ideas:
- Exposure: Participants engage with masterworks, diverse media, and various artistic methods by visiting museums and cultural institutions across New York City. These experiences broaden their artistic perspectives and inspire creative exploration.
- Creation: The program provides participants with the necessary tools, instruction, and dedicated time and space to create their own art. Collaborations with teaching artists and arts organizations facilitate skill development and self-expression, empowering individuals to explore their creativity.
- Exhibition: Artshare offers platforms for participants to showcase their work, including annual exhibitions and collaborations with galleries. These opportunities allow artists to share their creations with the community, receive recognition, and foster a sense of accomplishment.
By integrating these components, Artshare not only enhances individual growth but also fosters community involvement and social skills. The program challenges societal perceptions by demonstrating the artistic talents of the neurodiverse population, promoting inclusion within the broader arts community.
Adult artists attending one of Heartshare's Day Program locations, in Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island.
Artshare exists to address the significant challenge of limited access to artistic opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Historically, these people have faced barriers such as transportation difficulties, physical inaccessibility, lack of information, communication hurdles, and financial constraints. All of which hinder their participation in the arts. We believe that creative expression is a key component to being human. Artshare allows the people in our programs to exercise their voices — whether through a dance move, a song, or a brush stroke.
An annual celebration of Arts & Creativity on Atlantic Avenue.
Our largest annual art show returned to Clover's Art Gallery this May. The show featured over 100 original works from artists from our Day Programs. As always, it was an incredible event highlighting the creativity and potential of those we support.
Arts Programming within Developmental Disability Services is built around partnership and connection. Practicing teaching artists push into Day Programs to provide artist-informed performing and visual arts instruction. External organizations step in to offer addition opportunities for creativity. NYU Tandon finds ways to expand the arts to those with the most barriers to access. Collectively, they produce the magic that is Artshare.
Relevant Programs
Arts & Creativity are just one piece of programming we offer to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
