As a result of grant funding from the Peter and Elizabeth C. Tower Foundation, Vista Vocational & Life Skills Center (Vista) announced the creation of The Center for Artistic Expression, an arts program with a distinct twist on participation in the arts.

Tod Van Kirk, director of organizational development at Vista, said, "As an organization serving the needs of adults with neurological disabilities for over 20 years, Vista understands the value of providing programming in the arts that allows for a level playing field, fostering a multitude of opportunities for self-expression, increased self-esteem, and independence. The center will develop over time, initially offering programming to students and members of the Vista programs. Ultimately, the center will offer programming to the wider community."

Van Kirk said Vista believes "self-expression lives inside each of us. While some people appear born to perform using various forms of self-expression, often this ability needs a combination of nurturing and challenge to blossom. The developmental process may be different for each person. The commonality is that ability lies inside us all."

Initial courses for Vista student/members are being offered in fall 2012 with select courses culminating in community performances, exhibits, and recitals being held or performed in partnership with local arts organizations or community venues.

Participants in the center's programming, the director said, will receive expert, individualized instruction led by professional instructors in a noncompetitive environment designed to cultivate the artist that lives inside each of us. Additionally, instructors for The Center for Artistic Expression will have received training in how to work with individuals with disabilities.

Based in Westbrook and Madison, Vista Vocational & Life Skills Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Vista's mission is to provide services and resources on an individualized basis to assist adults with disabilities to live independent and successful lives.

Those interested in learning more about upcoming program and community offerings or volunteering or who would like to discuss becoming an instructor for The Center for Artistic Expression may contact Vista Director of Programs and Services Linda Rogen at 860-399-8080.