At the Cooper Center, we encourage artists with intellectual disabilities, many of whom cannot clearly articulate their perceptions and experiences verbally, to find their voice through art. The instructors teach time-honored methods and mediums to further develop each artist’s talents and abilities.
“We thoroughly instruct all the artists on technique, but it with their hearts and souls that they paint and create.” Terry I. Cooper
This class is comprised of the essential components of visual arts: form, size, and relationships. Using a step-by-step method each student learns what is needed to draw successfully, including proper materials and choice of media. Painting includes knowledge of the medium and the skills to use it. Depending on the student's manipulative abilities, their program may include: still-life, animals, and landscapes.
Students study the works of master artists to further their appreciation of art and culture through the ages and create original work that is influenced by the masters.
Students explore a wide variety of textile mediums including silk fabric painting, weaving, knitting, and needle craft with the goal of creating both fine and wearable art.
This class encourages students to work on ongoing paintings and art projects. An instructor is available to assist students who work independently.
This class consists of time-limited workshops such as silk painting, print making, and cultural /folk art methods and other dynamic art forms.
