Stephen Smith was simply ready for an adventure when he started meeting with an art therapist several years ago.
Smith, 35, has spina bifida and extensive learning disabilities.
Like many people with long-term illnesses, he sought art therapy as a treatment–with art as the tool for working through emotions and stressful times. He never expected to actually become an artist.
But his Elmhurst art therapist, Jackie Joanis, said that’s exactly what happened.
In the past year, Joanis was so impressed by Smith’s use of color in his abstract works that she held a public showing this month at her Art and Soul Studio in downtown Elmhurst. Nearly 50 of Smith’s fans turned out, and his biggest piece–a large splash of bright colors displayed on publicity cards in the shop window–sold quickly.
“He has a master’s handle of color that comes totally instinctively,” Joanis said. “And I think this instills energy and enthusiasm into other areas of his life as well.”
Smith has endured numerous surgeries for his physical disabilities. He paints in acrylic and watercolor from his wheelchair in Joanis’ street-side shop and is often greeted by local residents and business owners who like to talk art with him.
The budding artist lives with his parents in Elmhurst and doesn’t work, but he keeps busy with sports and social activities through the local special recreation association.