Art on Wheels travels to your agency/group and provides an art experience that enhances the lives of those expressing themselves through the creative arts.
''As a child I found myself drawn to the world of art. I discovered that drawing was a form of relaxation and understood the connection between art and self-expression. I realized that I could say things in art that I could not say verbally. A
fter graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts in 1982 I was able to use my art background in many different aspects while working with individuals with communication and life challenges...Debra Barnhart''
I have always loved art of all kinds. My favorite mediums are photography and painting, watercolors in particular. Because of this, I chose to study art at Edinboro University, graduating with a Bachelors of Fine Art degree. While at college I also had the opportunity to study art in Europe. I always carry the memories, experience and knowledge learned there, with me. While waiting to find that perfect art related job I began to work at United Community Independence Programs. It is here that I started to work with individuals with intellectual disabilities. It is here that I also started to see the benefits of using art with those that cannot express themselves in traditional ways. After 15 years at UCIP, I chose to leave so that I could stay home with my kids. I didn’t want to miss their young years. While at home I started teaching art from my house to home school students and I started to teach therapeutic art to individuals with intellectual disabilities. I also painted and sold artwork from home during this time. Once my children were older I decided it was time to return to the workforce. This decision brought me to Youth Advocate Programs where I have worked in the local schools and community as a therapeutic support staff for 11 years. Not long after I started at YAP I began working with Creative Expressions of Art which has been my greatest passion for the past eight years. Through my work at home and in the community I have accomplished many things that I am proud of. In the past few years I have received some awards including the Outstanding Woman of Northern Pennsylvania Award and the ARC’s Educator of the Year Award. Outside of work I am also very proud of my accomplishments as a wife, mother, artist, teacher and friend. From these roles I have gained a lot of life experience and knowledge. I bring all of these experiences to Art on Wheels and use it to best help the children/adults I work with every day. I am always available and excited to talk about Art on Wheels, so if you ever have questions or are looking for more information, feel free to contact me at 814-282-0989..
