In honor of Developmental Disabilities Awareness month in March, the Portage County Board of Developmental Disabilities (DD) held their first ever art show. And Garrettsville striving artist Hayden Morgan’s work was selected to be included.
Brian Morgan, the Barber of G’Ville, better known as Hayden’s dad, was pleased to attend the event the special gallery event at North Water Brewing Company in Kent with his family. Morgan noted that his wife Kelly helped their son Hayden create his submission, that of a tree branch with Hayden’s handprints as leaves (pictured at right).
Morgan went on to share that creating a piece for the show gave them the opportunity to express themselves, while giving them time to create together. He noted that his wife and son have really taken to painting, following the footsteps of painting legend Bob Ross. “They’re both really good, too,” Morgan added, sharing that their home is now full of the duo’s creative expressions.
Morgan went on to explain how the recognition at the event, while initially a bit overwhelming, really helped Hayden feel seen. “Being part of the show was a big deal for his self-esteem,” the proud father noted. “having his painting on display for all to see. It was just a great experience for everyone.” In addition, the show gave artists and their caregivers the opportunity to see teachers and friends they’ve missed due to Covid restrictions.
According to Tiffany Jones, the show, titled ‘Limitless’, was inspired by the desire to showcase the talents and abilities of artists of all abilities. To that end, the show featured 130 pieces created in a variety of themes and mediums by the children and adults in the DD community of Portage County. Work was solicited through county schools and through Portage Industries. In addition, DD held a number of art nights, providing supplies and space for would-be artists to work on their masterpieces.
According to Jones, the diversity in this collection of work symbolizes the uniqueness of the people who created it. A public event, which featured 30 pieces, was held at the North Water Brewing Company in Kent. “We had a lot of support from the community,” Jones explained. “It was a really remarkable event.” The event attracted between 75 – 100 folks, including artists, their families and friends, and others.
According to Jones, based on the success of the event the organization will hold another next year as well. You’ll see artwork from the collection on display at North Water Brewery, at Portage Industries, and in other businesses around the county. If your business or organization would like to display work from this show, contact Jones at tiffanyj@portagedd.org. In addition, a few of the pieces are available for sale, as well. A digital gallery of the complete collection can be viewed at https://portagedd.org.
