WINSTON-SALEM—April is National Autism Awareness Month and this year's theme focuses on acceptance and appreciation.
The Enrichment Center in Winston-Salem has also been working to accomplish those goals.
“I love doing crafts and it worked out real good for me, working here. I'm making things and selling them in the gallery,” said Noelle Nichols, Enrichment Center Student.
Nichols has been creating art at the Enrichment Center in Winston-Salem for almost five years. It is a journey that's taken her through various artforms and yielded many creations.
“Fused glass, I take jewelry, I take pottery, I take textiles and song writing," said Nichols.
She is one of nearly 125 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities taking arts and like skills classes at the center daily. Once complete, their artwork moves into the center's gallery to be displayed and sold.
“All of our students earn 50 percent commission on each piece they sell. The other 50 percent goes back to the Enrichment Center to cover some of the costs of instruction and supplies,” said Lauren Davis, Enrichment Center Development Director.
It is a process that artist and Enrichment Center Student Trip Collins has benefited from. For nearly 14 years he's created hundred of paintings, textiles and puppets.
“I love it here," said Collins.
Collins said he draws inspiration from Las Vegas and other things in life. And for some, the work doesn't end in the studio, but working to help others grow.
“In September I'm going to become a board member. I can’t wait," said Nichols.
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