It is the mission of the Dream Out Loud Studio, hosted by the Summit County Developmental Disabilities Board, to provide space for artists with disabilities to share their talents through creative expression.
And now through March 4, these works can be enjoyed by the general public at an exhibition at the Margaret Clark Morgan Foundation’s gallery. More than 30 pieces of art are displayed, ranging from individual works to collaborative pieces by multiple artists.
“This is a great opportunity to showcase the artists’ work,” says Jacquie Owens, business innovations manager for Summit County Developmental Disabilities Board. “It’s an honor to be part of this because the Foundation touches so many in the community through its generous work.”
In addition to enjoying the artwork, exhibition goers also have the opportunity to purchase pieces.
“Sales have been brisk,” says Brenda Schneider, senior program officer for the Margaret Clark Morgan Foundation. “We sold eight paintings at the opening and the week following. The artists are told which pieces sell, which is a very big boost for them.”
Those artists showcased at the gallery are paid an hourly wage during production. All money raised through sales of the art is put back into this hourly fund. The gallery, which offers the space for free to the studio, takes no commission from sales.
“Accessibility is the biggest impact in the arts,” Schneider says. “Accessibility to art, and to those who create it. Art engaged community. People can meet and talk to the artists, and find out that it is being created by people just like them.”
The gallery, located at 10 W. Streetsboro St., Hudson, is open to the public Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
