Autistic Services Helps Decorate the Rath Building

 May 4, 2009

 Erie County Executive Chris Collins was joined by Autistic Services Executive Director Veronica Federiconi and three artists to unveil a unique art exhibit in the Rath Building. Paintings from the Arts Work Program at Autistic Services are now gracing the Rath Building lobby. The Arts Work mission is to give people with Autism the opportunity to get involved in visual and performing arts. Communication is one of the main challenges people with Autism face, and visual art gives them an outlet to share their thoughts and feelings.

Erie County Executive Chris Collins said, "It's very meaningful to walk through the lobby of this building and see such beautiful artwork, knowing that the artists are overcoming significant challenges in life. I know these artists spent a great deal of time on their paintings. They're brightening the walls of our building, and our spirits."

Veronica Federiconi said, "For the past six years, Autistic Services has been using art as an outlet to help those we support express themselves. All of the artists have their own unique vision and understanding of the world that surrounds them. With the help of the art program, they have discovered new ways to create and depict their ideas. The work is a peek into the minds of these creative people and a glimpse into the exceptional abilities they possess".

This art work is not available for sale, but prints of any of the work are available for the cost of time and materials. For more information, contact Veronica Federiconi at Veronica@autisticservices.org.