Pottery is included in an exhibit of artwork created by and for the blind and visually impaired. The Middletown Arts Center (MAC) is hosting “Another View,” an exhibit of artwork created by and for the blind or visually impaired.
This multimedia show is a collection of paintings, sculptures, prints and mixed media work with an emphasis on tactual accessibility.
The eclectic works will raise awareness and dispel stereotypes regarding the abilities of the blind and visually impaired; and provide insight into the creation and enjoyment of art by both adults and children. “Another View” will remain on display through Oct. 12 at the MAC, located at the 36 Church St., next to the Middletown Train Station. The exhibition is free and open to the public. Gallery hours: Monday, Thursday, Friday, 1 to 8 p.m.; and Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The children participating are from St. Lucy Day School for the Blind and Visually Impaired in Philadelphia. The adults represent the New Jersey Blind Citizens Association (NJBCA) in Leonardo.
Both groups have received national recognition for their artwork. The MAC has been awarded a $15,000 grant from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs for Recreational Opportunities for Individuals with Disabilities. The grant will fund “Another View” and arts experiences for individuals with a wide range of disabilities including the blind and visually impaired, and children with autism and other disabilities.
“Our goal is to make the arts and this beautiful community center totally accessible to all members of the community. We are extremely fortunate that the Township of Middletown has made such a commitment to the arts through their partnership with the Middletown Township Cultural and Arts Council, the nonprofit responsible for programming at the center. This grant funding expands the ways we can reach residents who are often excluded,” said Maggie O’Brien, director of the Middletown Arts Center.
The MAC boasts a 23,000-squarefoot building, which includes ADAcompliant spaces designed to meet the needs of many arts disciplines. The space includes an exhibit gallery, a small performance theater, a dance studio, art studio, media lab, music practice room and two multipurpose classrooms.
As part of this program, the MAC will also be offering classes in the arts specifically designed to meet the needs of families with children with disabilities. The center is working with Stephanie Kalinoski, president of IMPACT, and Robyn Ellenbogen, a visual artist, who will be one of the instructors. The Middletown Arts Center is also working with VSA New Jersey.
Classes will begin this fall starting with the visual arts, then hopefully expanding to include creative movement, dance and theater. Input from the community is welcome.
The Middletown Arts Center is centrally located adjacent to the Middletown Train Station, which also makes it an ideal location to serve individuals with disabilities who may not be able to drive.
For more details go to: www.middletownarts. org or call 732-706- 4100.