The Collaborative Art Project

In the wake of a police related death of a local man with autism, Schmierbach took action in the only way she knew how: art and teaching. The Collaborative Art Project evolved and developed over the last three years. By bringing her college students together with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in art making practices, she hopes to motivate change of perception of each person creating art and each person viewing their art. All of the participants in this project were impacted by creating awareness of ability. It is only when everyone is allowed a place at the table we will have equality. IDD artists and college students enhanced their creative voice and cultivated new social interactions. They developed adaptive strategies for art techniques so each person can create. One college student stated, "They are willing to take risks, be brave, and experiment. I was able to use their insight in my own practice." Many people believe that individuals with disabilities that create art are savants. While this may be true in some cases, this statement discredits the art abilities of so many individuals with physical and intellectual challenges. It verifies, that to be an artist, one must be a genius. Art is for everyone. Art has the power to change, promote, and educate the artists and the viewer. Schmierbach hopes through The Collaborative Art Project that each person is given an opportunity to be seen for their creative ability and is worthy of equality.