JSDD artists create holiday card set

by Ron Kaplan
NJJN Staff Writer

Just in time for Rosh Hashana, the Jewish Service for the Developmentally Disabled is offering a set of High Holy Day greetings cards based on the work of participants in the WAE Arts Access Program, an alternative fine arts program for individuals with a wide range of disabilities.

The set of 12 cards features artwork by Debbie Hirschhorn, Mark Lubinsky, and Lisa Zampano.

“We wanted to celebrate the artwork that our WAE center participants are producing, and what better way than to be able to share it at the New Year?” said JSDD executive director Linda Press.

She said the three painters “think it’s fabulous” to have their creations, which have been exhibited at numerous WAE functions, available for such widespread circulation. “They love seeing the artwork in different places,” said Press.

The WAE — Wellness, Arts, and Enrichment — Center was established in October 2004 by the JSDD with a grant from the Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey. Located at B’nai Shalom in West Orange, it offers those with disabilities the opportunity to develop skills and self-esteem while tapping into talents and creating new possibilities for artistic and athletic pursuits. In addition to painting, WAE offers classes in theater arts, creative writing, horticulture, yoga, Pilates, meditation, and conversation.

The card set is available for $16; wholesale orders are also available. Proceeds will go toward scholarships for JSDD clients, primarily to help offset the cost of materials for those who participate in the painting program.

For further information on the holiday cards or JSDD / WAE programs or call 973-325-1494.