FARMINGTON — A few rain drops didn't stop hundreds of special-needs students in Davis School District from dancing, painting and singing Tuesday as about 40 schools participated in the Very Special Arts Festival.

The festival, funded in part by Art Access, has been an annual event for two decades. It is designed to provide an opportunity for special-needs kids to use the abilities they have to celebrate and create art.

Davis special education coordinator Vonnie Steele said the district was able to bring in local artists to both perform and teach the students. The kids learned tole painting, line dancing, Polynesian dancing and beading, and listened to folk singers, storytellers and a local band.

"Everyone can make a painting and everyone can dance — but they may not do it all the same way," said Amanda Finlayson, programming coordinator for Art Access. "It levels the playing field — there doesn't have to be levels in art, no matter how different it is."

Art Access is a nonprofit organization dedicated in providing art education and art services to adults and children with disabilities.

"We believe the arts provide a doorway into an inclusive setting because art is something everyone has access too," Finlayson said. "It makes an environment of inclusion and they can be a part of something — they are not limited to their disability."

Many of the students seemed to come out of their shells. Even wheelchair-bound students were attempting to dance and normally shy students owned the karaoke stage.

Steele said the point of the event is to let students achieve and succeed in what they are able to do while providing them another outlet to express themselves.

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"There are moments we see kids light up in ways you have never seen before," Steele said. "Sometimes in life we forget to look at the little things and appreciate that moment — today is to appreciate that moment."

Nearly two dozen artists volunteered their time along with parents and peer helpers.

"I am pleased as punch they are having something like this for these children," said parent Barbara Richardson. "I appreciate the community getting together and looking at these kids with a broader perspective and be engaging and accepting."


E-mail: terickson@desnews.com

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