Adjusting to the post-pandemic world in 2021 and addressing the needs of individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities for more robust activities, SFS established an Art Studio which is currently located in the lower level of one of the SFS residential homes. 

The art studio’s classes were initially organized and have continued to expand under the leadership of Ms. Rachael Corey (SFS Art Studio Coordinator).  The purpose of the studio is to provide STARS with tools to express their ideas through the creation of art and to develop their craft. The framework was intentionally developed with a holistic, individualized approach for each participant to focus on strengthening fine motor skills, enhancing emotional regulation, training in visual observation, and applying all five senses for grounding while also providing a venue for social interaction.  Our individualized approach emphasizes ability rather than disability and the artistic process, not the final product. Artists are encouraged to explore their own interests while working at their own pace.

SFS initially projected that the participants would experience these benefits from the Art Studio including strengthening their fine motor skills, experiencing enhanced emotional regulation, improving their visual observation, and increasing their socialization skills. All of the participants have exhibited these enhancements including reports from their family members and support staff of their increased self-confidence and individuality, improved sense of self-worth (especially evident at the Art Shows when artists were seen describing to their friends, family members and community guest the art pieces they created), and their knowledge and skill development of different artistic techniques and the use of a variety of artistic materials and mediums.

SFS has seen participants become more confident in their abilities.  One artist in the beginning of his participation in the Art Studio, struggled to even pick up a paintbrush or pen. He would always state that he “couldn't do it.” He adopted a daily mantra when attending class that “he is smart, capable, and talented”.  The art staff assisting him would periodically have him repeat it. After a while he completed his project. Now when staff asks him about his mantra, he says “I know” (how to do it). He now approaches new projects with confidence even if it is something he is unfamiliar with and hasn't completed before.

At the current time, about 16 artists are participating in the SFS Art Studio, some of them visit the studio once or twice a week to attend classes, each taking a unique approach to their artwork. Each week, dozens of artists can be found creating artwork in the studio, using a wide range of traditional and technological tools made available for self-expression, with support from dedicated SFS staff, student interns, and volunteers.

An additional emerging positive impact of the Art Studio is that STARS Family Services is now affiliated with two academic programs and provides internships and fieldwork experiences in the Art Studio classes. During the school year students who are pursuing future careers working with or in services for people with IDD receive hands-on training by assisting with Art Studio classes.

To learn more about the SFS Art Studio, please contact Dr. Sharon Coutryer, Executive Director, at scoutryer@starsfamilyservices.org or call us at 630-206-0243.