Assemblyman Will Barclay (R,C,I-Pulaski) met with participants from ARISE who created artwork for the organization’s 2012 ‘UNIQUE Art Exhibit.’ For the past two months, Barclay has hosted their work in his district office for the public to view. The UNIQUE exhibit promotes the voice and artistic vision of those with developmental disabilities, and Barclay was pleased to offer a forum to present their creative drive and vision.

“The participants in ARISE and their UNIQUE Exhibit are truly an inspiration to us all,” said Barclay. “It was my honor to host their artwork here in my office and present their incredible work to the public. ARISE does a great job promoting people with developmental disabilities and allowing their creative instincts to flourish, and I look forward to hosting their work again next year.”

The three artists whose work was displayed were Josh Webster, Dennis Pullen and Chloe Newman. Josh is an accomplished 23-year old artist from the Town of Mexico and submitted a painting entitled Love Hurts. Dennis is a 32-year old painter and poet from Oswego and submitted the poem “Warm Embrace” for this year’s exhibit. Chloe, the youngest person published in the 2012 exhibit at age 11, submitted the poem “In the Trees.” Dennis paints as well, though this year he submitted a piece of poetry.