A dream to provide quality art instruction to artists with disabilities came into reality when our first arts center opened its doors in 1997.
Students in Living Resources’ Arts Program receive art instruction from an exceptionally talented staff of highly trained artists. We work with individuals with a variety of disabilities including, but not limited to, mental retardation, cerebral palsy, autism, hearing impairments, schizophrenia, and acquired brain injury.
The program provides a stimulating and imaginative setting, with classes taking place throughout the week.
We provide instruction out of three sites:
In 2017, we opened Living Resources 70 Beekman Street Gallery in Saratoga. In addition to exhibiting the work of Living Resources students and community artists, the gallery operates as an inclusive community workspace where artists of all abilities can learn together.
Arts explored through the Arts Program include:
The Arts Program has been highly recognized not only in the Capital District, but nationally as well. The students continue to win awards at numerous art shows including the statewide juried art show Voice!, The Autism Society Gala, The NYSACRA Conference, Sunny Viewpoint Gallery, and BUILT.
One of the greatest advantages for students enrolled in our art center is our vast connections throughout the local art community. Our students’ artwork has been displayed in local businesses and galleries such as The Albany County Convention and Visitor Center, State office buildings, Thatcher Park Nature Center, The Opalka Gallery at Saint Rose, Fulton Street Gallery in Troy, Case Gallery at Skidmore College, Saratoga Arts Council Building, Hilton Garden Inn at Troy, and many more.
Our students’ art can also be seen in Living Resources’ 70 Beekman Street Gallery located in Saratoga and the Miller Sanders Gallery located in the Living Resources Corporate Headquarters.
The Art of Independence is an annual fundraiser that supports Living Resources’ work in providing essential life-enhancing services to individuals with developmental disabilities. AOI is an art event filled with food, raffles, and fun where guests can gain a better understanding of what we do and support individuals with disabilities. The AOI event showcases art made by our individuals. Check our events calendar for more information.