The use of 3D art is extremely important, especially to those 21 and older who have mental and physical disabilities.

I am fortunate enough to have been able to see this first hand. I have been employed as an art teacher and teacher’s aide at Cobblestone Art Center located in Farmington, New York, for the past 3 years. Cobblestone is a dayhab center that focuses on art, music, dance, and theatre for those who have disabilities. I have seen how important art is to the students, especially three-dimensional art.

Lesson Planning

As an art teacher working with this population, I have become aware of how important tactile objects are and can improve the art making process for those with limitations such as low functioning motor skills and visual impairments. When creating my weekly lesson plans, I try to create one project that allows for the incorporation of tactile objects so that everyone can feel included. Some of the materials include cotton balls, tissue paper, rocks, and beads. My students also find it extremely engaging when I use unconventional objects to create our projects, such as using forks and salt to create patterns. I noticed that when using these materials, the clients who have visual impairments feel more included because they can feel their projects and can work more independently.

Projects

Conclusion

Working at Cobblestone has been one of the most beautiful, life-changing experiences, and has allowed me to understand the importance of learning what materials are beneficial to this population and how they can really impact the art-making process. I have even noticed many of my students’ hand and motor functions have improved based on the work we are doing with the art materials.

Learn more about Cobblestone Arts Center: https://www.cobblestoneartscenter.com/about