STAR Silvermine ArtAcademy

New Arts Program for Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities at Silvermine Arts Center

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Silvermine Arts Center, in partnership with STAR, Inc., Lighting the Way, announced on Thursday the creation of a new arts education program called “ArtAcademy.”

ArtAcademy taps into the transformative power of art for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) by engaging them in a variety of art classes in an inclusive setting on Silvermine’s campus. — an announcement from Silvermine Arts Center

This new initiative expands Silvermine’s previous collaboration with STAR held at the Norwalk Public Library where students sampled classes in watercolors, pastels, and collages. On-site classes at Silvermine will enhance the instruction and experience by offering proper studios with special facilities and equipment in a creative environment where STAR participants will interact with teachers and fellow students. “ArtAcademy will offer the resources and pathways for adults with I/DD to explore, develop, and share their talents — and perhaps even discover skills that might lead to career development,” said Robin Jaffee Frank, director of strategy and development at Silvermine. “The STAR participants will develop art skills and social interactions, leading to improved creativity and independence,” Frank said.