The Eye of the Beholder: Interactive, Adaptive Art at the Expo

Dwayne Szot may say that it’s not about the esthetics, but it may as well be. The creations made possible by his organization, Zot Artz Arts for All, are inclusive, inspiring, uplifting, fun, fulfilling, confidence-building and help to enhance the development of children with disabilities. But they are also exquisite!

Zot Artz Arts for All has created a line of innovative assistive technology products to transform their mobility devices into tools that create giant brush strokes. Through their
services, programs, art tools and supplies, Zot Artz has opened the doors for individuals of all abilities to creatively express themselves.

Dwayne’s perspective—and the key to the success of Zot Atrz—is not to fit people with disabilities into an activity designed for the ambulatory or otherwise without disability. It IS to create entirely new activities and projects for people with disabilities, and then invite the others to join in the fun.

And the lucky Chicago Expo-goers will experience this phenomenon first-hand. Regardless of the kind or severity of their disability—physical, hearing, visual, behavioral, learning or developmental—children will let their creative juices flow to make original prints that they can take home with them.

While the kids are letting their imaginations run wild, their parents can fell secure that they are engaged in an activity which utilizes the same Zot Artz assistive technology that schools, residential and day programs, centers for independent living, parks and rec programs, museums, camps, children's hospitals and physical and occupational therapists also depend on. This artistic process operates on multiple levels, helping to develop motor skills, concentration, social interaction, self-esteem and more for children with cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy, spina bifida, autism and other disabilities.

There will also be gift boxes and cards available for purchase which are replicas of the works of other talented Zot Artz artists. Proceeds will go back into the organization to support Zot Artz future artistic endeavors.

For families whose children are participating at the Expo, a donation of $5 per child is suggested to cover costs and there is a limit of one print per child while supplies last.

For more information about Zot Artz Art for All, please vist www.zotartz.com.