In our first exhibition of 2018, “What Color Do You Want to Start With?” will feature 100 works by 70 different artists, all of whom have a developmental disability. The exhibition opens with an evening opening reception on Thursday, January 25, 2018 from 6-9P and runs until February 1, 2018. 

The artists featured are from the Services To Enhance Potential (STEP) Art in the Market Program. Art in the Market was created to provide adults with developmental disabilities the opportunity to improve their communication skills and add to the quality of their lives, with the potential for productive work skills.

“What Color Do You Want to Start With?” derives its name from the first question that art instructor, Ray Ackley asks each time they begin a new lesson. Rather than being told what to do, it is this beginning point that empowers them to make their own creative decisions. While the subject matter is similar thematically, each interpretation is wildly different and unique. The series on view in the exhibition centers on the City of Detroit, paying homage to various cultural icons and architecture.

“We are thrilled to partner with STEP to provide an opportunity for their clients to showcase their work in an elevated environment and furthermore, share the incredible talent that each possess,” Paulina Petkoski, Director, PLAYGROUND DETROIT said. “Every piece curated in the exhibition displays their individual visions and creativity.”

Over the last five years, PLAYGROUND DETROIT has hosted an on-going series of cultural events including pop-up exhibitions, residencies and concerts in support of Detroit-based emerging artists and performers. Their mission is to support and develop opportunities both for creative professionals, artists and residents in order to enhance and sustain Detroit’s creative economy.

“Art in the Market fosters independence by acknowledging accomplishment, practicing motor skills, developing critical thinking while learning and adhering to process,” said Brent Mikulski, President and CEO for STEP. “The program puts a great deal of focus on learning the fundamentals of communication through art, color therapy, shape, pattern perspective and content and we are grateful to PLAYGROUND DETROIT for giving our artists a venue to show off and sell their master pieces.”

“What Color Do You Want to Start With?” Group Exhibition at PLAYGROUND DETROIT, Featuring STEP’s Art in the Market, on view from Thursday January 25 through Thursday February 1, 2018, 6-9PM.  2845 Gratiot Avenue, Detroit, MI 48207.  

RSVP on Facebook.  

Services To Enhance Potential (STEP), is a non-profit organization that employs and provides support and services to over 1,300 individuals with disabilities and other mental health needs in Wayne County.  For more information, visit, http://stepcentral.org/.

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