Therapeutic outlet for Atlantis artists

ART can be both an expression of creativity and feeling, and is not limited by intellectual ability, as talented artists from Atlantis who have been part of the Orion organisation art therapy programme proved when they exhibited some of their works at the Community Chest in Cape Town.

The Orion organisation is a therapeutic home for disabled people, and the art programme is a way for them to express themselves and invite people into their worlds.

Artist Delaney Ficks, 24, has been with the programme for four years, and enjoys painting cartoons.

“This is very exciting, so people can know what type of art I am great in. People with a disability are as capable as anyone else.

“I have epilepsy and I am good with art. Art makes me feel empowered. I would encourage others, don’t worry what people say, God created talent in everyone,” he said.

William Niewenhuys, 32, also expressed great excitement about the opportunity to exhibit his work.

“I love the arts, especially drawing and painting houses. When I draw and paint. I feel very happy.”

Programme supervisor Shirley Keys has been with the organisation for 12 years. She said they grew from an activity centre to an art studio.

Keys said their vision was to take the programme to other communities and showcase their work abroad.

“This was a wonderful opportunity for people to see what people with an intellectual disability can do. It was also an opportunity for them to realise that there is a market for their work and to meet potential clients.

“It’s a big thing for us, our clients are happy doing art. I teach abstract art, while Richard Scott teaches new techniques.”

Social worker Maxine Basson said: “Members of the community come here to do various activities. They might not be ready to go into the open labour market, so they come to our organisation where they learn various skills.”