The Transformative Power of Art in the Additional Needs Community
“This event has literally brought color into our lives, through creation, joy and togetherness.”
– Cate, parent of Layla, Featured Artist of 2024
Each year, a growing number of artists with additional needs, alongside their families and caregivers, come together to create something extraordinary—Celebration of Creation, hosted by Additional Needs, Inc. (ANI). What started as a small art contest has blossomed into a cherished national art experience, culminating in a joyful reception at Naples Botanical Garden. The 2025 reception welcomed 364 attendees, more than doubling the previous year’s count of 158. The momentum is undeniable—and so is the impact.
A Mother’s Perspective: From Hesitation to Healing
Monica Feal never imagined that she and her son Emilio, who is on the autism spectrum and lives with visual and fine motor challenges, would find their rhythm through art. But thanks to a thoughtful occupational therapist who encouraged Emilio to participate—and the support Monica received to help him complete his first winter landscape—something clicked.
“Participating in this event created another outlet for bonding with my son. I saw how it helped him build visual, fine motor, and social skills. It’s something I am grateful for,” Monica shared.
Over the years, Emilio’s artistic expression evolved with the guidance of his mom and aunt. Today, his excitement is contagious—from creating and exhibiting artwork at Larimart Gallery to proudly attending the Celebration of Creation reception at Naples Botanical Garden. For Monica and Emilio, art became more than a creative pursuit—it became connection, confidence, and community.
Igniting Identity: A Family Finds Their Voice Through Art
For Cate’s daughter, Layla, participating in Celebration of Creation has been nothing short of life-changing. Layla found not only a platform but also a purpose. As ANI’s 2024 Featured Artist, she had her own webpage, gained followers and collaborators, and, for the first time, felt truly seen for who she is.
“She feels she has finally found a place where she truly has a voice and is accepted for who she is and the way she views the world.”
And Layla is not alone. Cate shared that her son Indiana, through his involvement, has blossomed into a confident young artist willing to take risks and open his heart to others. For both children, the event created a bridge to self-expression, courage, and new beginnings.
The impact rippled even further—Layla’s public gallery exhibit became the catalyst for her first real art sale and a business collaboration with Bonita Blooms. As her mother put it, “I have never seen her stand this tall.”
Why This Event Matters
The Celebration of Creation isn’t just an art show. It’s a lifeline for families. A chance for artists to step into the spotlight. A platform for self-discovery and growth. And a gathering place for a community that often feels unseen. The numbers speak volumes—but the stories speak louder.
Each year, more artists participate. Each year, more attendees come to support them. Each year, the lives touched multiply.
ANI’s mission is to highlight the abilities within additional needs. Art is one of the most powerful ways to do that. According to ANI’s article on the benefits of nature and art, creative expression has profound effects on individuals with additional needs—including emotional regulation, fine motor development, cognitive growth, and social engagement.
And the best part? This experience is open to all artists with additional needs—regardless of age, diagnosis, or ability level.
How You Can Be a Part of This
🎨 Artists & Families: Join the Movement
Are you an artist with additional needs or a caregiver of one? Don’t let fear or uncertainty hold you back. Whether you’re a seasoned creator or just starting out, this community will welcome you. Some artists use assistive technology, others create collaboratively with loved ones. Everyone is encouraged to share their vision, their heart, and their creativity.
👉 Submit your interest and explore past events at: additionalneeds.info/art-experience
💖 Supporters & Sponsors: Fuel the Magic
Help us expand this life-changing experience to more families. Your support ensures that more artists can exhibit their work, more families can attend the reception, and more individuals with additional needs feel empowered and seen.
👉Get Involved So We Can Grow Together, Sponsor Today!
Helpful Art Resources for Individuals with Additional Needs
Art Tools with Accessibility in Mind:
Online Learning & Inspiration:
Artsonia – An online student art museum
Grants & Scholarships for Artists with Disabilities:
From Emilio’s first winter landscape to Layla’s growing art business, the Celebration of Creation continues to unlock hearts and minds through creativity. It is a call to see ability. A chance to spread joy. And an invitation to build a world where every artist—regardless of challenge—can shine.
Will you help us color outside the lines?
