To see ahead of him, Nick uses a mirror attached to the back of his wheelchair. This allows him to watch the tracker as he paints. During his first month, Creative Arts staff introduced Nick to the different tools and painting processes in the studio.

Working with Nick’s mirror presented some unique challenges for the trackers. Another challenge was identifying Nick’s nonverbal cues. After a few sessions, the trackers came to understand that Nick indicates a yes with a strong, slow blink to let them know what he wants.

Nick loves to mix colors and is an extremely cooperative painter. To get the dozens of colors he likes in his pieces, Nick will mix each one to get it just right. He likes to think about what he wants, studies his pieces and then, once a decision is made, acts quickly. Nick will select many different canvases and sizes, making us think he always has something in mind. He likes just about every tool available in the studio really likes to experiment. He can be very goofy in the studio when the mood takes him and will laugh when something falls or if the tracker makes a mistake.

In 2009, Nick got a new chair he can use the studio. The new chair allows him to look directly at his art without using a mirror. This greatly increased his ability to direct the trackers. Now, Nick is able to be in the studio longer because it is not as tiring for him.

All of Nick’s work has sold. One of his first pieces is featured on the Creative Arts note card sets. Nick is a very enthusiastic painter. When it is his turn in the studio, he is always happy to go. When other artists cannot come to the studio for session, Nick is the first to get some extra painting time.

Nick’s parents are very proud of the work he is doing. In fact, his last piece was a special gift for his sister’s wedding. The Creative Arts team was all a bit worried that it might not be ready in time, but Nick came through and finished the piece. It was a beautiful day for his entire family.

The Creative Arts team looks forward to working with Nick for many years in the studio as he continues to explore new techniques and create beautiful artwork that truly comes from his soul.

Hattie Larlham Creative Arts

Creative Arts Resources

Creative Arts Sales

Artwork made by artists with developmental disabilities is available for sale, gallery shows and corporate collections. Proceeds from each sale benefit the artist.

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