102 and ready to paint!

102 and ready to paint!

Your support reveals talents that might have remained hidden.

Ruthie Weidenbaum (Coarc) shows off her latest painting, held by her tracker Stefanie Weber. Your support gives Ruthie an opportunity to share her creative spirit.

CATA artist Ruthie wheels up to the canvas with a big smile. Yesterday was her 102nd birthday, and she’s ready to start a new painting.

With the help of a laser pointer and the aid of a trained “tracker”—a person who acts as the artist’s hands— Ruthie and dozens of other artists are able to create stunning works of art through Artistic Realization Technologies.

Developed by artist Tim Lefens, this innovative technique gives full creative control to people with disabilities who are not able to hold or manipulate a paintbrush.

“A.R.T. offers a way for artists like Ruthie to communicate something that would otherwise go unsaid or unknown,” says Stefanie Weber, a CATA Faculty Artist who serves as Ruthie’s tracker.

After working with Stefanie for the past year, Ruthie has found a unique style that’s all her own.

“Do you want a big brush or a little brush?” asks Stefanie. She holds out a handful of brushes and Ruthie takes her time feeling each one. After she chooses, Ruthie uses a color wheel to show Stefanie exactly which shade she wants to use.

Ruthie uses a laser pointer to show Stefanie where to move the brush on the canvas.

“How’s this?” Stefanie asks, mixing the paint together. Ruthie smiles, “Yeah!”

With a laser pointer around her wrist, Ruthie shows Stefanie where to put the brush on the canvas. She moves the laser up and over, then into the corner, revealing a bright stroke of blue paint. Although she only started making art at age 100, she’s already finished twelve gorgeous paintings— and sold three at CATA art exhibits!

Before workshops started up again this year, Ruthie “couldn’t wait to get back to work.” Thanks to your support, she’s celebrating her 102nd birthday with a fresh canvas and a big creative spark!

(As a program requiring one-on-one support, A.R.T. is one of CATA’s most expensive to deliver. We rely on generous contributions from supporters like you to sustain this work.)

Young CATA Artists in the Spotlight... thanks to you!

CATA artist Owen with his painting, which will be featured in CATA's Annual Art Show at the Clark Art Institute and the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts.

Through our CATA in the Schools program, you’re helping young CATA artists like Owen explore new techniques in painting, dance, music, yoga, and more.

Now, because of your support, two of Owen’s stunning paintings will be featured in our Annual Art Show at the Clark Art Institute and the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts!

Great news!

CATA just received a grant from the ABC Fund of Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation to engage families of CATA artists in our public art exhibits. That means more people will be able to see the powerful artistry that you’re making possible!