During this odd time, it’s important to remember that local artists need our support in their efforts to utilize the arts for a better tomorrow.
One of our 2020 AiS Grant recipients, Rishika Kartik, proves that you’re never too young to make a difference and help others in their creative journey.
Her AIS project, “Vision of the Artist’s Soul,” embarks on multiple Colorado areas with providing tactile art courses tailored specifically to the Blind and Visually-Impaired (BVI).
Below, Rishika answers questions on the motivation behind the project, what opportunities she plans to explore as an AIS grantee, and her plans as an artist for the future.
Tell us a bit about your AIS Project “Vision of the Artist’s Soul”
“Vision of the Artist’s Soul” is an after-school Tactile Art program for Blind and Visually-Impaired (BVI) students across different school districts in Denver, Boulder, and Colorado Springs counties.
Rolling out in 3 phases between August through December 2020, the program addresses the lack of a formal arts programming for BVI students.
By providing an outlet for individuals to learn, express themselves and create accessible art, we believe that an arts education that is tailored to special needs will foster a sense of self-esteem, confidence and belonging.
Targeting the needs of under-served segments of our population requires the means of being culturally sensitive. Our program will consider and incorporate the diverse cultures and beliefs of visually impaired students. As a minority myself, I’m committed to fostering art as a medium for such communication.
During the first phase, our workshops will integrate educational concepts, such as form, space, perspective, and proportion, to strengthen the overall arts curriculum. Through the second phase, we hope to exhibit and celebrate the students’ work by sharing their work with a wider audience.
By the third phase, we will assess the the program’s success in implementing change and meeting our goal of introducing successful Arts Education for BVI students.
A summary of our findings will be delivered to various school districts (including blind schools) and presented to the National Federation of the Blind. It is our hope that our success might be replicated in Special Needs education programs across the country.
Through our arts program, I believe BVI students will find a sense of community and a way to express their creativity through art. I look forward to inspiring and mentoring these students.
“I believe BVI students will find a sense of community and a way to express their creativity through art.”
How did you become involved in this kind of work?
Three years ago, I was looking to do something that was fulfilling and purposeful. When I happened to mention this to a visually impaired friend, she immediately told me about Anchor Center for Blind Children, and suggested that this exposure would change my world.
I started volunteering there and was immediately welcomed with a sense of community, kindness, and compassion. At that moment, I knew I was in the right place. I expanded my service work to include the Colorado Center for the Blind.
Over the past 18 months, I have been working with teachers of visual impairment (TVI’s) across different school districts in Denver and Colorado Springs, in addition to volunteering at Colorado Center for the Blind, Anchor Center for Blind Children and National Federation of the Blind.
Through my volunteer work, I have had the privilege of building a great relationship within the BVI community.
As I became more immersed in the community, I was struck by how inaccessible conventional arts curriculum are for the visually impaired. Art has always been such an essential part of my life, yet so many special needs individuals cannot access it.
The lack of arts Education in blind communities spoke to me in ways that I couldn't ignore. What began as a murmur in my heart soon began my calling.
Working diligently towards my goal, I became the youngest President of the Colorado Tactile Art Club and created opportunities for blind students to explore their imagination and make accessible art. It’s through my experiences and advocacy work that the idea of “Vision of the Artist’s Soul” came to me.
My commitment is driven by my interest in art and people, and the goal to serve my community. I am thankful to the BVI community for educating me in how to make such a difference.
What has your experience been like as an AIS Grant recipient?
I was beyond thrilled to receive this prestigious Arts in Society grant and honored to be named as one of the awardees.
My commitment is to bring positive change for visually impaired students by introducing a program that incorporates and promotes tactile art education into their school curriculum.
I’m filled with gratitude for such an incredible opportunity and I cannot express how much this funding means to me. With this grant, my dream becomes a reality — and I can’t wait to get started.
How do you find time as a high school student to do this important work?
Allocating time for my work with the BVI community is a priority for me. This work is fulfilling and helps me combine my interest in art with making a positive impact for the Blind and Visually Impaired Community.
Since my work is so important to me, I have become more efficient at time management and managing school work alongside this project.
What do you see for yourself as a future career?
WOW! That is a big question, and I am still figuring that out. Currently, I am taking time to broaden my horizons and explore the options that align most with my interests. I love the arts, I have a passion for STEM subjects, and am committed to working for social justice.
I know that whatever I choose to do will combine these interests. I am also certain that I will continue serving and learning from the BVI community, and use art as a catalyst for change.
I have found purpose in every activity I do now, and I hope to find opportunities that are equally fulfilling and empowering in the future!
About Arts in Society
Since 2016, Arts in Society has been funding individuals, grants, schools and government entities, with two-year grant awards of up to $50,000 per project. In addition to funding, grantees receive training, professional development, and marketing/social media support. Funding is offered to projects in Colorado that are working collaboratively and utilizing the arts as an integral element for promoting social justice and community welfare.
Arts in Society is funded through a cohort of Colorado funders. 2019 funding partners include Bonfils-Stanton Foundation, Hemera Foundation, and Colorado Creative Industries . Funds and support are administered via RedLine Contemporary Art Center in Denver.
