ACCEL

Brighton Jewelry Store – Thoughts

If you think Jewelry Store and Art, the ideas usually mesh together. The same isn’t usually said for Autism, though. But, at the Brighton Jewelry Store, located at Scottsdale’s “Kierland Commons”, all three finally came together… and it was a sure-fire pleasure to be a part of it.

I was one of the artists to participate in a small display representing “art in autism”, a program sponsored by Autism Speaks and ACCEL. The idea of having art being viewed and appreciated by others has always been riveting, and when yet another opportunity reared its pretty little eyes in my direction, I just couldn’t say no. But this time instead of just the traditional colored pencil, I wanted to try something different. This meant something that would help my female figures stand out. But, after much deliberation, and even more discussion, I found the very thing that would help.

Over this year’s Spring Break, I produced two pieces, both of which displayed foreground figures in said colored pencil fare. Behind them were striking watercolor backgrounds. This was my first time actually working with paint, so it certainly wasn’t easy the first try. But, with the help of a phone call to my art savvy aunt and diluting the paint with water, I eventually got the hang of it. With this fresh addition to my work, I was ready to submit them. However first point of submission, oddly enough, wasn’t Brighton.

At first, I was asked to participate in an art show for adults with disabilities, along with my coworker, James Price. I created the two works, and James constructed a working waterfall out of coins, cardboard, Styrofoam and figures resembling those found on playing cards. However, just as we got our works in, we were informed that the art show had been put off until next year, as not enough submissions were entered by the final deadline. We were also informed of Brighton’s display for Autism Speaks. We both jumped at the opportunity.

On April 30th, I attended the reception for all the artists participating, donning a pink dress, and an allergy induced headache of all days, right? The letter aside – who needs it anyway – I had the privilege of meeting a representative for Autism Speaks, and one of the participating artists, named Sam Irving. I chatted with them over various stories and ideas, as well as the artwork each of us created. Then I got to thinking: hearing Sam’s story, and seeing pictures of his art – both of actual art and in galleries – I thought, if I put my heart into my art work, that could be me someday. I sure hope to get to that point.

In all, I’m grateful to be given these opportunities to show the world what I can do. Has it been easy? Certainly not. Perfecting talent like this takes time, not overnight success. If these talents need to be utilized, you need lots and lots of patience and perseverance. For me, being given a chance to show my stuff has been a blessing. Who knows?

Rebecca David

Michael’s Garden