MANSFIELD, Ohio – Element of Art, an art gallery on the corner of North Main street and West Fourth Street in downtown Mansfield, celebrated their five-year anniversary on Friday, December 5. The organization did not celebrate just their presence, however, the celebration was for the clients involved with making art through the gallery.
Element of Art is a non-profit art gallery and art education center dedicated to reaching out to individuals with developmental disabilities who are affiliated with Richland Newhope Industries, Inc. They educate approximately 80 clients on a variety of artistic genres including, photography, glass work, print making, acrylics, and jewelry.
The clients’ work is showcased at Element of Art and they then receive 50 percent of the retail price for any items that are sold.
“Our artists have such a high creativity level, that they can adopt new techniques very quickly.” said Art Coordinator Kathy Goodwin..
Goodwin has been involved as Art Coordinator for three years now. Before that she worked in different art galleries for 27 years. She graduated from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh in 1986, and finished her bachelor of arts in 2010 at The Ohio State University.
Last Friday, at the celebration, the community came to appreciate the displayed art: all made by Newhope clients with developmental disabilities. The evening included catered food by Café on Main and City Garden Café, performances by the Richland Newhope Dance Troupe led by Aurelio Diaz, and a performance on piano by Tim Ludwig. Over 100 community members came through the gallery in response to the celebration.
“Our location has allowed us to be an integral part of the growing arts community,” said Goodwin.
Element of Art holds a specifically focused class within the art field twice weekly from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. They accommodate different learning styles and Goodwin said once the client starts on a project, it’s hands off from that point on.
“The clients really have the freedom to create whatever they want. The class helps develop their technique,” shared Goodwin.
Visit the Element of Art website for pictures of the art and for more information on the organization. They also have a Facebook page; or call their office at 419-522-2965.
Editors note: Some portions of this article have been changed or removed to correct inaccuracies on the part of Richland Source.
“Our artists have such a high creativity level, that they can adopt new techniques very quickly.” said Art Coordinator Kathy Goodwin.
