UNIQUE 2016

ART & LITERARY MAGAZINE
2016
Untitled
Amanda Chamberlain
Acrylic on Canvas
|
22.5” x 32”
Amanda Chamberlain, 30, enjoys experimenting with colors and is as energetic as the colors of
her painting. Each painting is the result of a great deal of physical exertion, as she thrusts her
body forward to slap the paint on the canvas. Previously in UNIQUE 2015.
Premier Sponsor
The Drescher Corporation
Sixteenth Edition Sponsors
J.W. Burns & Company Investment Counsel
Patrons of the Arts
Tania S. Anderson
The Bonadio Group
Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.
SUNY Oswego
Friends of UNIQUE
INFICON
Media Sponsors
Opening Exhibit Partner
EVERSON MUSEUM OF ART
SPECIAL THANKS
UNIQUE
ABOUT ARISE
ALL AGES. ALL DISABILITIES. ALWAYS BY YOUR SIDE.
We work to create a world where all people, regardless of disability,
have the power to make their own life choices and achieve their dreams.
Since 1979, we have provided opportunities so that people with disabilities can
participate in the community and live independently. ARISE is...
Community
Choice
Independence
Change
....a community of advocates, committed to
ensuring that every person, regardless of
disability, is able to live a full and independent life.
...building ramps for families in need so that they
can reclaim their freedom and independence.
Opportunity
...connecting employers with qualified workers
who happen to have a disability.
Empowerment
...our person-centered approach maximizes
choice and self-determination. Individuals are
always at the core of everything we do.
...by eliminating physical barriers and changing
attitudes, we’re creating a more inclusive
community.
You
...we couldn’t do it without supporters, volunteers,
advocates, and friends like you. Together, we can
change the world.
...empowering children and families through
mental health services.
Adventure
...whether it’s flying down the slopes at
Toggenburg or horseback riding at ARISE at
the Farm, we’re providing access to year-round
adventure.
Hope
...from helping families move out of crisis
situations to transitioning people out of nursing
homes, we’re providing security, safety, and hope.
CONNECT WITH US
WAYS YOU CAN DONATE
Donate Online
See all that #ARISEis at ariseis.org
facebook.com/ARISEcny
facebook.com/ARISEattheFarm
youtube.com/ARISEcny
twitter.com/ARISEcny
Visit our website at
Donate by Mail
Send your donation
(payable to the ARISE Foundation) to:
ARISE Foundation
635 James Street
Syracuse, NY 13203
CELEBRATING INDIVIDUALITY
In my mind, this UNIQUE magazine contains layer after layer
of storytelling.
First, there is the story of UNIQUE magazine itself, which grew
from a great idea sixteen years ago into a premier art and literary
publication featuring the works of people who have disabilities. The
UNIQUE story also includes the dramatic arc culminating in a gala
opening exhibit at the fabulous Everson Museum of Art, where artists
can see their work professionally displayed and the public can enjoy
the work and meet its creators.
There also is the story of ARISE, the five counties we primarily
serve, the more than fifty programs we offer, and the approximately
7,000 lives we touch annually in our community.
At the center, of course, are the stories contained in the art itself.
Some of the written pieces literally tell a story. Others, and the visual work, tell stories in the most
individual way, as a snapshot in time or as an idea or emotion we are invited to share. The stories
these works of art tell are absolutely unique, starting a conversation between artist and audience.
The former reporter in me most enjoys the stories of the artists whose work is published in
these pages. In a few sentences, we get a sense of the people who chose to share a piece
of themselves in a public yet very intimate way. While many artists tell how their experience
of disability informs their work, I learn how their experience in life connects me to them as well
as their work.
Finally, there is the story that you, as the reader, chooses to make of this magazine. You bring
your life experience, your preferences, yourself to each piece. What you make of the interaction is
entirely your own.
It is my honor and privilege to invite you within the pages of this UNIQUE magazine. Visit it often,
and discover a new story each time.
TANIA S. ANDERSON
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, ARISE
EDITORIAL BOARD
NIENKE DOSA, M.D.
2016 UNIQUE
EDITORIAL BOARD
SUNY Upstate
Medical University
Patricia Contant Clary
ARISE Foundation Board Member
Dan Cummings
NewsChannel 9 WSYR
Nienke Dosa, MD
SUNY Upstate Medical University
Elizabeth Dunbar
Everson Museum of Art
Maurie Heins
ARISE Board Member
You are holding in your
hands another brilliant
edition of UNIQUE Art and
Literary magazine. This
annual publication and
exhibit at the Everson
Museum combine two
things that I care about
very much: my work in
developmental pediatrics
Janelle Fields
and my passion for art.
Sean Kirst
As a developmental pediatrician I provide medical
care to kids who have spina bifida, cerebral palsy,
intellectual disability, and autism. A major role for
someone like me is to help families realize that a
developmental disability isn’t an illness. I do my
best to help kids and parents switch gears after
hospitalizations and surgeries, and learn how to
live with disability. And by that I mean to really live!
To be artistic, athletic, theatrical, musical, etc. etc.!
JFields Marketing
Upstate Journalist, Author, and Storyteller
Connor McGough
ARISE Foundation Board Member
Agnes McCray
ARISE & ARISE Foundation Board Member
Diana Pelletier
ARISE Foundation Board Member
Diane Sokolowski
CNY Arts Center
KEY STAFF
Tania S. Anderson
Chief Executive Officer
Nancy Kern Eaton
Chief Development Officer
UNIQUE
Gigina Long
Editor
Katie Button
Editorial Assistant
Cynda Penfield
Editorial Assistant
To be fully alive is to be creative, to share and
express one’s unique talents and gifts with others.
That is what I love about UNIQUE: how vibrant it
is, the spectrum of viewpoints and ideas, and the
beauty that is creative expression, because this
reflects a flourishing soul. Beauty inspires, and
we all need that in our lives!
I always keep copies of UNIQUE Art and Literary
magazine in the waiting room of my office. I love
to share information with families about all the
wonderful resources we have in our community,
because it conveys something very important:
in Central New York, we are aiming high for
our children and for everyone. We are creating
opportunities for expression and inspiration for
all. There’s really nothing better as a parent, a
pediatrician, or a teacher when you are able to
spark that in someone…
ABOUT ARISE
UNIQUE
FEATURED ARTISTS
FRONT COVER: Amanda Chamberlain, Untitled
BACK COVER ARTWORK: Kristen Webb, Mikey
BACK COVER POETRY: Mary Coogan, We Know
Jonathan Autrey, Different Roads............................6
Jean LeoGrande, The Treasures of a Princess......11
Amy Bauter, A Walk on the Beach............................8
Shawn Mack, Late Night Stalker.............................15
Brandy Bedell, The Zodiak Pisces.........................30
Elizabeth (Beth) Manzo, Little Mermaid’s Home......4
Jessica Bero, Architecture......................................12
Laura Masuicca, Seaway Hues................................9
Carol Broome, Resurrection...................................12
James McCampbell,
A Sovereign of Dusk and Nightshade..................17
Anne Burgmeier, Curious Cat................................25
Amanda Chamberlain, Untitled...............Front Cover
Jacqueline Colone, Electric Beats...........................1
Mary Coogan, We Know...........................................2
Brittany Cook, Two Cats........................................10
Jessica Darby, I Stand Alone..................................16
Charles Fitzpatrick, Koi Wonder..............................3
Jennifer A. Fulco, Catapulting Through.................14
Michele Galden, Delta Lake...................................15
Fran Gavin, A Cool Retreat.....................................20
Vivian Golding, Still Life Scene of Home...............21
Ivette Gonzalez, PaPa............................................28
Derek Grindle, Picture Frame...................................4
Marc Grindle, I Wish...............................................18
Jeffrey D. Harrington, Love In Paris........................5
Kimmy Harvey, In the Q-ube..................................27
Amanda Julian, Untitled.........................................17
Mark Kearney, Canoeing by the Bay........................7
Benjamin Kellogg, A Conversation........................30
Karen Koegel,
Playing & Jumping in a Pile of Leaves.................19
Kaushik Krishnan, HOPE......................................14
Kanishk Krishnan, My Twin, My Light....................10
Anna-Marie Kuiper, Racing Mind...........................21
Sean Larkin, Flight of the Butterflies.......................26
Amber Micek, Earth Home.......................................5
Matthew Parry, Shir Con........................................28
Beth Pelletier-Perra, Silent Tear............................22
John Phillips, Portrait.............................................13
Catherine Robertaccio, Untitled.............................29
Joseph Rufo, Out of Africa.......................................6
Hannah Rufo, Papas Fritas.....................................26
Mary Schweitzer-Burgmeier, Are You There?......25
Kateri Senke, Rainbows and Raindrops.................29
Charles Serway, Just Follow the Leader..................7
Erica Sorar, Remembering the Hero Is...................19
Melissa Sorar, Blanket of Many Colors...................24
Robert Szpak,
Tree Lined Lane on a Stormy Night.....................23
Minnie Thompson, Miracle.....................................24
Daniel Turco, Bald Eagle........................................23
Karen Voas, Tree in a Duststorm............................27
Elizabeth Watson, Tree Over a Sunset..................16
Kristen Webb, Mikey.................................................1
Josh Webster, Good Times......................................9
Jeremiah Werden, Hamilton Theatre......................11
Katie West, Hoo I Am..............................................20
Gloria Williams, Imagine..........................................3
Timothy Wobus, The Flower Garden.....................13
Mikey
Kristen Webb
Chalk Pastel | 16.75” x 13.5”
ELECTRIC BEATS
Jacqueline Colone
Collage | 15.5” x 18”
Kristen Webb, 31, grew up in Fayetteville and enjoys
skiing, swimming, and animals. She has cerebral
palsy and enjoys the process of creating art. Mikey
is a portrait of her nice (but grumpy-looking) cat.
Previously in UNIQUE 2010-2015.
Jacqueline Colone, 17, has Down syndrome. She
enjoys playing guitar, dancing, and kickball. Inner Soul
is a self-portrait created using the double-exposure
technique. She layered a textured screen on the
original image to show that there is more to her than
the surface. Previously in UNIQUE 2011
1
We Know
We bear witness because
there is no other choice…
New York, New Delhi, New Zealandinescapable.
Mary Coogan
We touch…
the weight of a weary body
pictures hung with care
filthy, dirty hands
We taste…
the residue of a child’s
sticky, soft finger
water
sweat
disease
We hear…
sounds of new life
whispers
cries of anguish
We smell…
fragrances of fresh cut flowers
standing tall in a makeshift vase
acrid smoke of hate
a first meal in two days
We see…
smiles
miracles
sensual pleasure
atrocities
stereotypes
death of minds, bodies and spirits
We are the walls you
live in
work in
play inSecrets are safe, promises protected;
We bear witness because
there is no other choice…
Mary Coogan, 58, is from Baldwinsville. She enjoys karate and walking everywhere with her guide dog. This poem
was the product of a poetry class that Mary took at the YMCA. She shares that the piece expresses humanness and
how life experiences bring about new ways of living. Previously in UNIQUE 2004 and 2013-2015.
2
Koi Wonder
Charles Fitzpatrick
Acrylic on Paper | 12” x 18”
Imagine
Gloria Williams
Monotype | 9” x 12”
Charles Fitzpatrick, 29, lives in Martville and has
autism. He has a deep love of nature which inspires
his art. He owns four snakes, three dogs, one lizard,
and a cat named Bandit. Charles was drawn to the
bright colors of koi fish and wanted to capture that in
his piece. Previously in UNIQUE 2010 and 2015.
Gloria Williams, 62, titled this piece Imagine because
of the different shapes, figures, and forms that start
to appear the longer you look at it. In addition to art,
Gloria also loves to read and learn about animals.
She is a member of David Clark Learning Center.
First year in UNIQUE.
3
Little
Mermaid’s Home
Elizabeth Manzo
Acrylic on Canvas | 20” x 16”
Picture Frame
Derek Grindle
Photography | 7” x 10”
Elizabeth (Beth) Manzo, 27, has Down syndrome
and has earned several medals in the Special
Olympics. She is in the process of moving into her
own home. This painting was inspired by Beth’s
love of watching sunsets, visiting the ocean, and the
movie, The Little Mermaid. First year in UNIQUE.
Derek Grindle, 26, has autism and lives with
his parents and his dog, Sparky. Art releases his
frustrations and communicates his thoughts and
feelings. Derek hopes his art will be his livelihood
and a legacy for people with autism. Previously in
UNIQUE 2004-2015.
4
Earth Home
Amber Micek
Acrylic on Canvas | 12” x 12”
Love In Paris
Jeffrey D. Harrington
Acrylic | 10.5” x 13.5”
Amber Micek, 38, is a Syracuse native who creates
art in response to the isolation she feels because of
her bipolar and schizoaffective disorders. Earth Home
is a symbol for shelter and reflects Micek’s desire to
create beauty through her art. Previously in UNIQUE
2010-2015.
Jeffrey Harrington, 25, created this painting after
being inspired by An American in Paris. In the midst
of all of the fear and pain happening in the world,
Jeffrey urges people to remember that love, art,
music, theater, and dance can bring people together.
Previously in UNIQUE 2008-2015.
5
Out of Africa
Joseph Rufo
Acrylic | 17” x 22”
Life is like different roads traveled,
You have to live,
With the roads you have chosen,
At the end of the day,
YOU have to deal with it,
Whether you have a disability,
Whether you have lost a family member,
You have to live your life,
Or you will DISPISE the choices,
You have made,
Train yourself to become BETTER,
Good decisions come from within.
Different Roads
Jonathan Autrey
Joseph Rufo, 23, was born with Down syndrome
and works in the mailroom at SUNY-ESF. He enjoys
painting because it allows him to express himself.
In addition to art, Joseph also loves watching and
playing sports, powerlifting, sewing, and baking.
Previously in UNIQUE 2010-2015.
Jonathan Autrey, 26, lives in Manlius and was born
with cerebral palsy. He is inspired by his mother’s
strength and humor, his friends, and life experiences.
Jonathan started writing in high school and realized
that it was an outlet he could use to express himself.
First year in UNIQUE.
6
Just Follow
the Leader
Charles Serway
Mixed Media | 16” x 24”
Canoeing by
the Bay
Mark Kearney
Mixed Media | 17.5” x 13.5”
Charles Serway, an artist we have proudly featured
before, passed away on May 25, 2016. Charles
credited the David Clark Learning Center with helping
him to express his feelings visually. He used colored
sands and fine-ground pigments to capture the
terrain. Previously in UNIQUE 2011 and 2015.
Mark Kearney, 62, enjoys hosting cookouts. This
piece captures his memories of fishing and canoeing
on Moon Lake, where he would see all of the washed
up logs and swamp grass. He is a member of David
Clark Learning Center. Previously in 2008, 2010-2011,
2013, and 2015.
7
The beach is my place to be
It’s my sanctuary
I like to escape and connect with God
It is where I pray and he listens
The Lord holds my hand as we walk together
I am safe in his arms
A Walk on
the Beach
Amy Bauter
It is peaceful and beautiful
The world is mute and calm
The sun is shining and the water is serene
I stand still
Resting in his arms as he heals me
The Lord helps me to see the beauty in his work
The sand sinks between my toes
Sending a shiver up my spine
As I’m drinking a glass of wine
The tide is coming in
And makes a loud splash on the sand
The water gets closer and nips the end of my toes with a warm kiss
Along with each tide, it reminds me that the Lord washes my worries away
I’m glad he’s on my side
He goes before me and guides me in the right direction
The sun glistens over the water
It shines over me and lifts me up
The cool breeze is blowing and the sand is on my toes
The palm tree leaves sway in the gentle breeze and make a relaxing sound.
It’s a wonderful feeling when I’m on the ground
And, found my way back
I thank the Lord for clearing my mind and giving me a renewed spirit
He loves me and cares for me so much
I can feel his arms around me
It feels like a spiritual hug
He is so kind and fills my cup
It gives me strength to face the day.
Amy Bauter, 37, uses writing to escape from the realities of having PTSD, anxiety, and depression. She was
inspired to start writing after a local author visited her school and introduced her to poetry. She wrote A Walk on the
Beach to reflect her escape to the beach and her faith in God. First year in UNIQUE.
8
Good Times
Josh Webster
Acrylic on Canvas | 48” x 36”
Seaway Hues
Laura Masuicca
Fiber Art | 33” x 50”
Josh Webster, 27, is a Mexico native with a traumatic
brain injury who loves the outdoors and cars. He is
inspired by dreams, fantasies, and what really matters
– enjoying the little things, whether a sunset in the
desert, a refreshing cold drink, or friends being together.
Previously in UNIQUE 2008-2010, 2012-2014.
Laura Masuicca, 51, loves to crochet because it is
something she can do without experiencing a lot of
pain. Laura grew up near Lake Ontario and captures
the rich blues, greens, and purples in the afghan, as
well as the calm and beautiful waves. Previously in
UNIQUE 2009, 2012, and 2014-2015.
9
Two Cats
Brittany Cook
Digital Art | 11” x 17”
My Twin, My Light
A gift from God
My twin My light
A mirror of my thoughts
My twin My Light
A guardian angel
My twin My light
A pillar of my life
My twin My Light
Always by my side
My twin My light
A peaceful companion for eternity
My soul mate, My Twin, My Light!!!
Kanishk Krishnan
Brittany Cook, 28, is from Phoenix and has autism.
She graduated from SUNY Oswego in 2014 with a
BFA. Brittany is drawn to the comics and cartoons
because of how they use movement, color, and
emotion to tell a story. Two Cats was inspired by her
cats, Max and Toby. First year in UNIQUE.
Kanishk Krishnan, 18, wrote this poem in response
to the feelings of pure loneliness he experienced
when his twin brother was sick in the ER. Kanishk
shares that autism has challenged him to look within
himself, and that it has pushed him toward philosophy
and spirtuality. Previously in UNIQUE 2015.
10
Hamilton Theatre
Jeremiah Werden
Acrylic on Canvas | 14” x 11”
The Treasures
of a Princess
Jean LeoGrande
Mixed Media | 17” x 14”
Jean LeoGrande, 75, is from Fulton and has dyslexia
and a brain tumor. The artist has a deep love for
history and uses it as inspiration when she creates
her art. Previously in UNIQUE 2014.
Jeremiah Werden, 31, lives in Hubbardsville and has
Down syndrome. Jeremiah loves to paint and draw.
He is also a huge NASCAR, Star Wars, and Syracuse
basketball fan. Jeremiah created this painting
because he likes old buildings and enjoys going to
movies. Previously in UNIQUE 2010 and 2012.
11
Resurrection
Carol Broome
Mixed Media | 9” x 13.5”
Architecture
Jessica Bero
Photography | 10” x 8”
Carol Broome, 67, is a widow and proud
grandmother of six and mother of two. This piece
is a reflection of her devotion to God. She is a
member of David Clark Learning Center.
Previously in UNIQUE 2009.
Jessica Bero, 30, is from Rome and has Down
syndrome and a mild intellectual disability. She uses
photography to capture the beauty in the world.
Jessica was drawn to this composition because
of the relationship between nature and the city.
Previously in UNIQUE 2009, 2012, and 2014.
12
Portrait
John Phillips
Acrylic on Canvas | 12” x 16”
The Flower Garden
Timothy Wobus
Acrylic | 24” x 27.25”
John Phillips, 28, grew up in California and currently
lives in Auburn. John had a creative calling in high
school and is inspired by his classmates at F.A.M.E.
art studio. The figure in Portrait originally had open
eyes but John chose to depict the figure resting, in a
state of peace. First year in UNIQUE.
Timothy Wobus, 32, lives in Manlius, has autism,
and is non-verbal. Timothy prefers to use large
brushes and selects colors that reflect his mood or
the season. He inherited his interest in art from his
family and created The Flower Garden for his mother.
Previously in UNIQUE 2006-2008 and 2010-2015.
13
Catapulting
Through
Thunder catapulted through the clouds
Unmasking lightning’s flashing shrouds.
Tumultuous, torrential down-pours
Hit the ground and flood the moors.
Taking urgent shelter from the overbearing streams
As calamity’s cubic flooding tragically screams
For safety is an ultimate concern
As from nature, man must attempt to learn.
Seeing a wide eye to the shadows so brisk
For the light undid them with a wishful whisk.
Nature carefully considered its calm
As the petitioners/parishioners prayed the palm.
Memory hinges on night’s greatest decisions
And forgetfulness brings about day’s derision.
Let’s not deny reality and its focus
As we water gaping gardens with their crocus.
Fate can’t turn tablets like free will can
As decisions do break or make the manAs the nightmare adds dreary to the dream,
One prays for absolution by the pillow’s seam.
For the sandman may be cosmologically cruel,
My sleeping mind/conscience must do a duel
With dark and light to surrealistically sleep
So happiness shall surge systematically and keep.
Jennifer A. Fulco
Hope
Kaushik Krishnan
Ceramic Sculpture | 18” x 7.25”
Jennifer A. Fulco, 48, uses writing as a way to stave
off the melancholy she feels from bipolar disorder.
She is inspired by nature and its wonders, poets like
John Keats and Samuel Taylor Coleridge, songwriters
like Lou Reed and Jim Morrison, as well as classical
and jazz music. Previously in UNIQUE 2007-2015.
Kaushik Krishnan, 18, believes having autism gives
him a unique perspective on life and art. He says,
“each day lost in autism, my soul is reaching out
through clay.” HOPE is a ceramic sculpture that is
filled with symbolism about autism and Kaushik hopes
it inspires others. Previously in UNIQUE 2013-2015.
14
Delta Lake
Michele Galden
Photography | 10” x 8”
Late
Night Stalker
Shawn Mack
Woodburning & Acrylic | 15.5” x 12”
Michele Galden, 63, is from Camden and has
a moderate intellectual disability. In addition to
photography, Michele also enjoys looking at airplanes
at the airport, reading the paper, doing word searches,
shopping, and going out to dinner. First year in
UNIQUE.
Shawn Mack, 40, believes that waking up each
morning is a blessing. He dreams of having his own
home one day and loves to do yoga, volunteer, play
congas, and sing in a band. He is a member of David
Clark Learning Center. Previously in UNIQUE 2006,
2008, and 2010-2011.
15
Tree Over
a Sunset
Elizabeth Watson
Fiber Art | 36” x 58.25”
I Stand Alone
I am here
However alone
Even in a full room
I’m still alone
Smiles may be present
However I’m alone
I’m here but remain alone
Why people ask why
I’m better that way
I’m helpful to others
But I choose to
Stand alone
Jessica Darby
Elizabeth Watson, 23, has cerebral palsy and seizure
disorder. She created this wall hanging in order to
challenge and expand her artistic skills. Elizabeth
credits Amanda Bingham, Diana Hartman, and Nance
Boremann as influences. Previously in UNIQUE 2009
and 2011-2015.
Jessica Darby, 17, draws and writes to help
overcome her worries, relieve stress, and deal with
her depression and disabilities. Her poem is about
feeling alone whether she is with people or not.
First year in UNIQUE.
16
A Sovereign
of Dusk and
Nightshade
James McCampbell
Digital Art | 10.33” x 16”
Untitled
Amanda Julian
Acrylic on Canvas | 28” x 17.5”
James McCampbell, 37, is a visual artist who is also
interested in music, science, politics, movies, and
literature. James created this piece out of a desire to
make something strange and alien but also beautiful.
He is inspired by comic book art, his family, teachers,
and local artists. Previously in UNIQUE 2015.
Amanda Julian enjoys painting and experimenting
with color. She often uses tape to section off her
painting, as well as different brushes and texture tools
to create a layered surface. When Julian finishes a
painting, she often laughs with excitement. Previously
in UNIQUE 2014.
17
I Wish
I wish that the sun would shine down
With the purest of light
For everyone around.
I wish that all the people could see
That love and acceptance
Is the way it should be
I wish for peace throughout this world
To end all the hate
And the violence unfurled.
I wish that there were no more wars
Or political reasons
To settle a score.
Marc Grindle
I wish that there was no more greed
No way to profit and
No way to deceive.
I wish that someone could tell me
Why things cost so much here
In the land of the free?
I wish we could find out the real truth
Instead of hearing
Things are going so smooth.
I wish there was an answer to it all
Where do we go
When we finally fall?
I wish I was a thousand miles away
Laying on a beach
On a sunny day
I wish that I could just duck and run
Escape all the madness
Crawling under the sun.
I wish that I could travel back in time
Correct the mistakes
Of all humankind.
I wish I could fly off into outer space
And start a new life
In a different place.
Marc Grindle, 59, deals with depression. He enjoys playing guitar and writing music. He started writing songs
when he was 47, and is inspired by Bob Dylan and Ronnie Van Zant. I Wish is a song about love, peace,
acceptance and some of the problems that he sees in the world. Previously in UNIQUE 2015.
18
Playing &
Jumping in a
Pile of Leaves
Karen Koegel
Acrylic on Canvas | 16” x 20”
Remembering
the Hero Is
Erica Sorar
Acrylic on Canvas | 20” x 16”
Karen Koegel, 50, created this painting to capture
the fond memories she has of fall and playing in the
leaves. This piece is part of a four-piece series. She
says painting lets her live in the present moment and
forget about the chronic pain, anxiety and disability
she experiences. First year in UNIQUE.
Erica Sorar, 23, has an intellectual disability and uses
art as a way to express her feelings. She created this
painting to honor the men and women who fought
to keep us free. Erica also loves cats and dogs,
riding and training horses, and fishing and camping.
Previously in UNIQUE 2012.
19
A Cool Retreat
Fran Gavin
Oil on Canvas | 18” x 24”
Hoo I Am
Katie West
Acrylic on Canvas | 20” x 16”
Fran Gavin, 54, is an Army veteran who lives in
Camillus. Fran uses art and music to help distract him
from the chronic pain that he experiences. He has
been playing guitar for six years and started painting
seven years ago after he was inspired by Bob Ross.
Previously in UNIQUE 2014-2015.
Katie West, 27, is a native of North Syracuse who
has multiple disabilities. Katie has many interests,
including art, reading, baking and cooking, puzzles,
racquetball, tennis, horseback riding, and bowling.
Painting helps her focus and get back on track for the
day. First year in UNIQUE.
20
Racing Mind
Anna-Marie Kuiper
Fiber Art | 44” x 54”
Still Life
Scene of Home
Vivian Golding
Digital Art | 10.5” x 7”
Anna-Marie Kuiper has schizoprehnia and uses art
to express her thoughts and feelings. This piece is a
representation of her mind with the blue symbolizing
sadness and the swirls representing chaos. AnnaMarie also enjoys music and exercising. Previously in
UNIQUE 2012-2015.
Vivian Golding, 73, grew up in Brooklyn and worked
at SUNY Oswego for many years until she retired
because of her multiple sclerosis. This piece is
dedicated to her daughters, Lori Ann and Lisa; and
her grandsons, Ian, Adam, and Finnegan. Previously
in UNIQUE 2003-2007, 2009, and 2012-2015.
21
You looked into my eye
And saw my silent tear
You ask me is it happiness
Or is it fear
When one door closed another opens
So they say
I try not to let fear get in my way
I have learned to live day by day
As it falls down my face
Silently off my chin
Where is my place
Where do I fit in
It is hard
This is true
You have to find the inner you
I have a disease people can see
But instead of the disease
I wish they would see me
I can still do things
Not like before
But that has only opened other doors
There are so many things
I would have never seen
That were right in front of me
Like a bird in the sky
Or a beautiful tree
So much life was going on around me
So getting sick or being disabled
Does not have to feel
Like you are being labeled
It may not be easy
Losing things you loved
But it brings new perspective
New ideas, new loves
Now I have to slow down
Rather I want to or not
All other options
Have been forgot
Silent Tear
Beth Pelletier-Perra
Struggle I do
To meet new people
Who often turn their backs
As they do not know what to say
Or how to feel
They do not understand
So they walk away
Leaving my heart
Broken for the day
I want them to see me
For who I am inside
For this disability and disease
Is a part of me
I can not hide
So when you ask
If my tear is happiness or fear
I will tell you
They are both in there
Please do not judge
What you do not understand
For life can change in a minute
I see your silent tear
Running down your face
Is that my reflection that I see in it...
But that does not mean
I give up living
It just means a new beginning
Beth Pelletier-Perra, 50, states that her multiple sclerosis and two brain aneurysms have significantly influenced
her creative process. Her art speaks for her when words fail her. Silent Tear expresses how she feels living with a
disability – both the positive and the negative. Previously in UNIQUE 2015.
22
Bald Eagle
Daniel Turco
Acrylic on Canvas | 22” x 22”
Tree Lined Lane
on a Stormy Night
Robert Szpak
Acrylic on Canvas | 15.25” x 19.25”
Daniel Turco has always found a need to express
himself through his art. His dream is to become rich
and famous. While Daniel typically chooses to paint
popular culture icons like Rihanna or The Lord of the
Rings characters, he chose to paint an eagle for this
piece. First year in UNIQUE.
Robert Szpak, 67, feels fulfilled when he is creating
artwork. This painting was inspired by Onondaga
Hill. The stormy cloud between the trees depicts
how he feels about having schizoaffective disorder
– sometimes it’s stormy and sometimes it shines.
Previously in UNIQUE 2008-2015.
23
Blanket of
Many Colors
Melissa Sorar
Fiber Art | 59” x 89”
Miracle
Minnie Thompson
Mixed Media | 11” x 14”
Melissa Sorar, 23, has an intellectual disability. She
made this blanket reflect how the world is made up
of people of many colors, shapes, and sizes. Melissa
expresses herself by writing stories and creating
things. She was inspired by Mrs. Foster, her home
school tutor. Previously in UNIQUE 2011-2012.
Minnie Thompson, 67, has always dreamed of
being a mermaid. She says that mermaids are unique
creatures, just like her! Minnie used colored sea
glass and polymer gloss to make this piece. She’s a
member of David Clark Learning Center. First year in
UNIQUE.
24
Are You There?
Mary Schweitzer-Burgmeier
I’m so small, but you can see
Little tiny, tiny me?
You’re so big,
much, much bigger than me
Can you see what’s inside of me?
It’s so dark inside the night
Sometimes I feel like I’ll die with fright
When you made me did you know
Just how much I’d need you so?
My heart is here to listen to you,
I need to know what to do
When I look into your light
I know I’m safe for at least this night
Step by step each day I grow
I count on you to not let go
Curious Cat
Anne Burgmeier
Acrylic on Canvas | 2.5” x 3.5”
Mary Schweitzer-Burgmeier, 64, lives in Syracuse
and has limited mobility due to two accidents and
fibromyalgia. This poem is inspired by the tiny painting
created by her daughter, Anne. Mary hoped to capture
the wonder experienced by the tiny creature in a
massive universe. First year in UNIQUE.
Anne Burgmeier, 24, grew up in Syracuse and has
bipolar and schizoaffective disorders. The cat featured
in the painting is in his own little world, surrounded
by a dark and beautiful environment. In order to
challenge herself, Anne chose to paint on the smallest
canvas she could find. Previously in UNIQUE 2013.
25
Papas Fritas
Hannah Rufo
Photography | 12.5” x 16”
Flight of the
Butterflies
Sean Larkin
Mixed Media | 30” x 15”
Hannah Rufo, 21, has autism and takes classes at
OCC. She uses photography as a way to show others
the world in the way she does. She chose French fries
as the subject not only because they are tasty, but
also because they represent people to her; each fry is
unique. Previously in UNIQUE 2010 and 2014-2015.
Sean Larkin, 47, enjoys spending time with his family.
Flight of the Butterflies was made with iridescent sand
and real butterfly wings. The butterflies give him a
sense of both freedom and peace. He is a member of
David Clark Learning Center. First year in UNIQUE.
26
Tree in a
Duststorm
Karen Voas
Mixed Media | 10.25” x 15.25”
In the Q-ube
Kimmy Harvey
Acrylic on Canvas | 12” x 16”
Karen Voas, 46, is currently working on a series of
pieces about trees. She enjoys experimenting with
materials and created this piece by first wood burning
the drawing and then applying colored sand. Karen
loves travel and would drive a truck around the world
if she could. Previously in UNIQUE 2011 and 2015.
Kimmy Harvey, 46, is a LPN and mother of
three who sustained a TBI in a car accident. The
construction of patterns helps diffuse all the fleeting
ramblings of thoughts cluttering each moment.
Previously in UNIQUE 2012-2015.
27
Shir Con
Matthew Parry
Acrylic | 15.5” x 18”
PaPa
Ivette Gonzalez
Photography | 10” x 8”
Matthew Parry, 23, is from Barneveld and loves
to watch movies. His knowledge of movies inspires
his artwork. Matthew says that the warm colors in
the painting reflect his own friendly, kind, and warm
personality. First year in UNIQUE.
Ivette Gonzalez, 23, was born in Cuba and currently
lives in Fayetteville. She has a disability caused by
seizures. Ivette loves photographing people and
enjoys making people smile through her work.
First year in UNIQUE.
28
Untitled
Catherine Robertaccio
Acrylic on Canvas | 42” x 21”
Rainbows and
Raindrops
Kateri Senke
Mixed Media Sculpture | 5.5” x 37.5”
Catherine Robertaccio uses a laser and tracker to
create her artwork. Catherine has a signature color
palette of greens and purples which often appear in
her work. She is always excited to finish a painting
and has been delighted to hang her art in her home.
First year in UNIQUE.
Kateri Senke, 17, attends Oswego High School and
has Down syndrome and ADHD. She is grateful to her
art teachers. Ceramics class is one of her favorites
because she loves working with her hands.
First year in UNIQUE.
29
When I am speaking with you,
My mind is processing many things.
I am trying to maintain eye contact.
I am concentrating on what you are saying.
I try to come up with an appropriate response.
Sometimes you go too fast,
Or I am distracted by another thought,
Or our discussion takes an odd turn,
Leaving me at a loss for words,
But only for a moment or two.
I do enjoy repartee,
But for me, it does not come easily.
Sometimes when we converse,
I say things I later regret.
At the time, I thought they were suitable,
But only after we are through
Do I realize the way I worded it
Was not what I intended
Or that you might have been offended.
By this time, when it is too late,
We have moved on to other things,
And I am too embarrassed
Or caught up in my own thoughts
To track you down again
And clarify or apologize,
It hurts me inside, more than it probably should,
Because in my mind, I tend to turn molehills into mountains.
A Conversation
Benjamin Kellogg
The Zodiak Pisces
Brandy Bedell
Spray Paint & Acrylic on Canvas | 36” x 24”
Benjamin Kellogg, 25, is a freelance writer from
Mexico. His autism sometimes makes it difficult to
express himself verbally. Writing has given him a
greater range of expression so that he can articulate
his thoughts more clearly. Previously in UNIQUE
2014-2015.
Brandy Bedell, 30, is from Oneida, works part-time at
the Vernon Downs Casino, and attends the Heritage
Farm Day Habilitation Program. Brandy enjoys
painting and playing with color and feels calmed by
the process. First year in UNIQUE.
30
HONORABLE MENTIONS
The UNIQUE Editorial Board recognizes
the talent and creativity of the
following artists and writers:
Mike Abbott
Edward Amlott
Donna August
Lisa Bednar
Sabrina Biggs
Sarah Brittenham
Diane Budnar
Sheala Burks
Quinn Carter
Vickie Darby
Joseph Dumas
Jenny Dunlop
Esther R. Dygert
Sue Ellis
Theodora Emch
Heritage Farm
Andrew Gage
Matthew Gainey
Vicky Giangotti
David Greene
Kim Grindle
Brian Haher
Virginia Hall
Robert Harmon
Joyce Howard
Jeremy Kelley
Sujit Kurup
Margaret Lawless
Caleb Leonard
Dawn Liddle
Marie Martin
Aeryn Mitchell
Emily Rose O’Terry
Dorothy Paone
Paul Philipp
Rosemarie Pitcher
Oramella (Melly) Putman
Paul Recore
Kathy Roland
Andie Rose
Tiffany Rosinsky
Eric Sharpe
Robert Simmons
Jennifer Sloven
Kathleen Thompson
Amanda Townsend
Donna Walrath
Tyler Woodland
John Ylitalo
Virginia Zabel
Do You Want to Submit to UNIQUE?
UNIQUE is published annually to display the creative work of people with disabilities living in
Central New York. We welcome submissions of written and visual art. Guidelines and deadlines
for UNIQUE 2017 will be announced in March 2017 and will be available at uniquemagazine.org.
CONTACT US
UNIQUE Magazine
c/o ARISE
635 James Street
Syracuse, NY 13203
uniquemagazine.org
Alternative Formats
Portions of UNIQUE are available in alternative formats upon request. Please contact ARISE at
(315) 671-4643.
Ways to Support UNIQUE
Become an Underwriter
UNIQUE sponsorship celebrates the creative spirit and raises
awareness about disabilities by supporting the community
exhibitions and printing of the free publication. Sponsorship
levels start at $500 - $5,000.
To learn more, contact Nancy Kern Eaton at (315) 671-2903 or
[email protected].
Make a Gift
Your charitable contribution is a strong statement that you
share our commitment to celebrating the artistic expression of
people of all abilities. Your donation to UNIQUE or other ARISE
programs makes it possible for us to continue to provide a wide
array of services for people who have all types of disabilities.
ARISE is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. To make a
donation, use our secure online form at ariseinc.org or mail a
check to:
ARISE Foundation
635 James Street
Syracuse, NY 13203.
Purchase Calendars & Prints
UNIQUE Wall Calendars and Notecards are available for
purchase at our ARISE Syracuse office. You can also order a
print of your favorite UNIQUE artwork. Not only do they make
great gifts, a portion of the proceeds support UNIQUE and
ARISE. For more information, call (315) 671-2909.
ADDITIONAL
SUPPORT
FOR UNIQUE
PROVIDED BY:
UNIQUE Donors
R. Douglas Eaton &
Nancy Kern Eaton
Rich Tokar
We Know
Mary Coogan
We bear witness because
there is no other choice…
New York, New Delhi, New Zealandinescapable.
We touch…
the weight of a weary body
pictures hung with care
filthy, dirty hands
We taste…
the residue of a child’s
sticky, soft finger
water
sweat
disease
We hear…
sounds of new life
whispers
cries of anguish
We smell…
fragrances of fresh cut flowers
standing tall in a makeshift vase
acrid smoke of hate
a first meal in two days
We see…
smiles
miracles
sensual pleasure
atrocities
stereotypes
death of minds, bodies and spirits
We are the walls you
live in
work in
play inSecrets are safe, promises protected;
We bear witness because
there is no other choice…
Mikey
Kristen Webb
Chalk Pastel | 16.75” x 13.5”
635 James Street
Syracuse, NY 13203