In 2006, Tony Fragua, Visual Arts Director for VSA Arts of New Mexico, was contacted by the Center for Development and Disability (CDD) to have VSA art classes produce work around the theme of "Opening Opportunities." VSA teachers worked with their classes to produce over eight pieces of work which were turned over to CDD for review. From that group, a series of 38 relief prints from Tony Fragua's printmaking class were purchased by the CDD.
The prints were made using several doorways that were created and crafted out of wood and cardboard along with metal animals from a donation. The artists worked on background colors with chalk pastels, choosing components and colors that they wanted in their compositions. The finished relief items were individually inked and added to the backgrounds. Several colors were often printed from an item, giving the finished work the wonderful depth that comes from using many colors. This was a time intensive process and one the apprentice artists thoroughly enjoyed. Sixteen artists work are represented in the 38 prints.
The CDD has chosen seven originals for reproduction this year. Posters and note cards featuring the prints have been produced, with two of the prints being selected for the 2008 and 2009 official conference posters.
The CDD is pleased to designate all proceeds from the sale of these posters and note cards to support scholarships for people with disabilities at the 2009 conference.
To purchase these items, please complete the order form and mail or fax it to the conference coordinator - see the order form for details.
