Artwork by Individuals with Disabilities on Permanent Display in Woodbury

The artwork of 21 individuals with disabilities is now on permanent display at an RXR Realty property in Woodbury. RXR Realty, a leading real estate operating company in the New York metro area, commissioned the work by these individuals, who are affiliated with Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc.

Based in Old Bethpage, FREE benefits and proudly supports more than 3,500 individuals with intellectual disabilities, mental illness, and traumatic brain injury. FREE’s mission is to help individuals of all abilities realize their full potential by providing a diverse array of supports and services.

On July 2, the artists were honored at an installation ceremony and reception at the property, located at 1000 Woodbury Road. New York State Assemblyman Charles Levine and Nassau County Legislator Judy Jacobs were in attendance.

One piece is a 7½-foot-by-10-foot self-portrait by Laura Levy, an individual enrolled in one of FREE’s programs. Other works include pieces from the Flags of Hope exhibition created by 20 individuals from FREE’s fine arts program.

 “This display, which will live in perpetuity, is a perfect example of how the not-for-profit human services world can successfully partner with the for-profit corporate community,” says Robert S. Budd, CEO of FREE.

 “It has long been known that there is a connection between creativity and feeling well, and there has always been a special place in history for those souls who could express beauty and bring it into our world,” says Ed Regensburg, FREE’s director of art therapy. “When the artistic process is facilitated through the eyes and hands of a professional art psychotherapist, newfound energy and functional skills are not only harnessed but actually intensely focused.”