A six year traveling exhibition has now found multiple homes in Western New York.

Arts Work for Autistic Services is a program for people with Autism, allowing them to express themselves through visual and performing arts. “The work is a peek into the minds of these creative people and a glimpse into the exceptional abilities they possess.” says Dana Ranke, a teaching artist at Autistic Services. The arts is one facet of Autistic Services’ mission that helps close the gap between people with Autism and typical populations.

Arts Work, has recently enjoyed a steady increase in popularity due to its ongoing traveling exhibitions. Various works have been on display at such local museums and galleries as: The Albright-Knox, Burchfield-Penny Art Center, Impact Gallery and CEPA. The result has been that local businesses are now taking notice of the work.

Inspired by a string of requests from entrepreneurs in search of original art to hang on their walls, Autistic Services launched a Lending Art Collection, which offers commercial and non-commercial venues the option of borrowing the works for display. Staff at Autistic Services assist in art work selection, delivery, installation, and set up. All exhibited work is accompanied by a bio of the artists on display.

“It’s great to have so many people in the community taking an interest in the work by our artists. The goal of the Lending Art Collection is to promote Autism Awareness and give the public a chance to see the capabilities of people with Autism. Having the work on display in so many different venues means that we are meeting our goal.” said Veronica Federiconi, the Executive Director at Autistic Services.

Currently, art from the Arts Work program is hanging at Brodo Restaurant on Main Street in Williamsville, Elmwood Village Dental Care, The Rath Building, Buffalo State Department of Education, The Waxing Studio, and Tennyson Court Senior Care Community. Though the artwork is not for sale, information about obtaining prints or borrowing from the collection is available by calling 631-5777 ext. 318.