The Partners Program: AR+T

I believe myself to be an “Art Lover.” I hold this title only because I cannot, by any means, refer to myself as an artist. I attend the monthly Gallery Stroll, held on the third Friday, like a ritual hoping to suck up some of that creativity but when the paints come out I always draw a blank. Motivation is only one problem artists face, along with the right techniques and time, it’s a wonder we have so many talented artists in Utah. Then it occurred to me: “Art breeds Art.” The opportunities to be mentored, along with a good dose of inspiration, are everywhere especially in Utah.

The Partners Program, sponsored by Art Access, pairs up aspiring adult artists with disabilities with a professional local artist for a one-on-one mentoring program. These partnerships prove to be a life changing experience for all involved. One of the said partnerships in 2003 placed Vojko Rizvanovic, aspiring artist, with University of Utah Art Professor Sam Wilson. Vojko was attending the University of Utah after surviving the war in Yugoslavia and requested Sam for his partnership. The war had taken Vojko’s sight and irreconcilably damaged his limbs but his focus on becoming an artist has never wavered. His paintings emerged despite the physical challenges he faces in even the most basic scenarios. Rizvanoic’s work engages the viewer with the sheer gravity of what Vojko must conquer every time he walks up to his four-story apartment. Vojko’s determination to be an artist has won him the respect of his fellow students and teachers with whom he would like to call collogues some day. His goal is closer than ever now that he has been accepted into the Education Department at the University.

The Partners Redux, featuring Vojko and Wilson, is a recreation of that first alliance between mentor and prodigy. The Partner’s Redux show will be on display in the Art Access front gallery from October 21st until November 11th at 339 West Pierpont Avenue.

While drive is important to reach any goal, education is essential. The avenues of education seem boundless in Utah. Many enroll in the more traditional forms of education like universities or community groups but finding an artist you want to learn from is priceless. A great example is artist Chris Miles, a highly creditable Utah artist, who offers introductory classes in painting and illustration. Starting October 8th and running Saturdays from 10am to 12:30 p.m. for eight sessions aspiring artists can learn the fundamentals of color, drawing, and painting advancing the lessons as the individual class progresses. For more information on the curriculum or to enroll contract Chris Miles at chris@chrismiles.net

The arts can be awe inspiring and humbling but also accessible. Support local art, artisan and venue’s: it’s a part of all of us!