Organization wants to be inclusive
Deb Bartlett

In an effort to put into practice its vision, mission and values, posAbilities’ seventh annual art show for B.C. artists with developmental disabilities will be trying something new to foster community inclusion this year.

Seema Tripathi is an employment specialist with posAbilities, the organization that plans the art show. This year, she’s chair of the art show committee.

The show had been held for artists with developmental disabilities to showcase their work. For the first time, the event is also open to South Asian artists. Organizers say it’s a move to be more inclusive.

Artists in the Lower Mainland will participate in posAbilities’ annual art show on Oct. 27.

Over the years, people who participated in posAbilities’ programs exhibited and sold their work at the show. “It (the art show) was a good platform to showcase artists in the Lower Mainland,” says Seema.

Since its debut in 2005, more organizations that served people with developmental disabilities came on board, partnering with posAbilities, and the art show grew. But this year, what Seema calls “mainstream artists” from the South Asian community have been invited to share their culture at the Bollywood themed event.

“It’s been well-received,” she says. “We’re looking at all different things,” including South Asian tribal art.

The organizing committee envisions a variety of artists from the area visiting the show.

“That would be true inclusion,” says Seema.

Artists registered in the show are invited to bring up to five pieces of work in any media for the exhibition. At least three of the pieces must be for sale. Seema says the volunteers at the wrapping table are busy all night long, preparing purchases for the trip home.

Many guests who buy, says Seema, are supporting friends and family, but many members of the public come out to support posAbilities and purchase original pieces.

The art show will be held Oct. 27 from 5 to 9 p.m. at Heritage Hall in Vancouver. Registration is now open, please see www.posAbilities.ca for details.

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