User:Freshartnyc
HISTORY
fresh art was formed in September of 1997 by people active in social services and the arts who believe that disadvantaged and underserved individuals should be recognized for their talent and not solely for the obstacles in their lives. fresh art introduces these artists to the greater community with the belief that they will benefit in all aspects of their lives from being recognized for their cultural contribution to society.[1]
Since the inception of fresh art‘s programs in 1999, we have helped more than 800 special needs artists from thirty social service agencies from the New York City area.[2]
WHO WE HAVE SERVED
fresh art‘s artists reflect a diverse range of underserved groups throughout the city. They are seniors, people with mental illness, physical and emotional disabilities, HIV and AIDS, in long-term recovery from chemical dependencies, and homelessness.
Over the past few years, fresh art has worked with the following organizations either setting up workshops or including their artists in our exhibitions:
- Bellevue Hospital Chemical Dependency Out Patient Clinic
- Bowery Residents’ Committee
- Brooklyn YWCA
- Community Options, Inc.
- Greenwich House MMTP-Creative Recovery Group
- Henry Street Settlement-290 E. 3rd St. Supportive Housing Residence
- Neighborhood Coalition for Shelter
- Park Avenue Women’s Shelter
- St. Francis Residences I, II and III
- St. Margaret’s Residence
- Sirovich Senior Center
- Visiting Nurse Association of NYC
PAST EXHIBITIONS
fresh art produces public art exhibitions at various venues throughout the city to promote the talent and creativity of New York City’s disadvantaged and underserved adults. These artists live in supportive housing facilities, shelters, and senior residences. Artists receive 60% of proceeds from art sales, with the remaining funds supporting fresh art’s exhibitions and workshop programs.[3]
FINE ART AND CRAFT WORKSHOP PROGRAM
Launched in Fall 2000, the Fine Art and Craft Workshop Program teaches special needs artists crafts and fine art skills and encourages them to explore their creativity through challenging projects. fresh art’s professional artists/teachers present workshops in a variety of methods and materials.[4]