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Hidden Talents Come Alive at Special Tree Art Event

An art exhibition celebrates the talents and creativity of staff and clients


The extraordinary artwork and fine crafts created by Special Tree staff and clients were showcased at the first-ever “Art in the Tree” exhibit held at the Troy Neuro Skills Center on August 5, 2009. The Troy gym was transformed into a lofty art space as dozens of Special Tree staff, clients, family, and friends mingled about at a reception that featured live music (performed by Case Manager Nancy Goldberg), edible creations (generously donated by local businesses), and colorful floral and plant arrangements (compliments of Rehabilitation Services Rep Margo Riza and Physical Therapist Kit Pohl). The eclectic exhibition featured a wide variety of artistic mediums including works on paper, painting, sculpture, jewelry, textiles, photography, poetry, and music.

“This art show was a wonderful opportunity for clients and staff to interact socially and gave everyone an opportunity to learn something new about each other,” said Troy Billing Coordinator Holly Mortensen who chaired the event. “This is such a creative group and I’m glad we could organize an event to recognize the many hidden talents here at Special Tree.”

Many staff contributed artwork including CEO Joe Richert who impressed the crowd with a watercolor painting and pencil drawing. The exhibit also featured numerous works from adult and student clients. Several students who participate in Special Tree’s summer and after-school programs displayed their eye-catching art pieces that they created at Paint-a-Miracle, a therapeutic art studio in Rochester. Other clients made artwork especially for the event and worked with Special Tree therapists to incorporate therapy goals into the process.

Art in the Tree also showcased the many event planning talents of Holly and her ace team of staff organizers who pulled out all the stops to make this a memorable gathering. Committee volunteers include Margo Riza , Carolyn (Sunny) Walker-Campbell, Beth Westergard, Kim Townsend, Kimett Hackworth, Angie West, and Sara Lundston. Special thanks to Sunny who created artwork for the t-shirts worn by the committee.

“The event was a great experience for both the artists and the attendees,” said Holly. Troy Occupational Therapist Sharon Roy was one of the exhibitors who enjoyed the recognition she received for her Ojibwa style basket and bag. “I found that it was very affirming to have my work viewed and so many questions asked about the processes for producing work with admiring comments about them,” she said. In fact, Holly and the committee volunteers have received so much positive feedback that they’re looking at other ways to recognize the creative endeavors of staff and clients at the Troy Neuro Skills Center and other Special Tree facilities throughout the year.


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