UnchARTed Waters on Display at The Discovery

The Down Syndrome Network of Northern Nevada (DSNNN), along with its community business partner, Bridgewater Swim Academy, makes a splash this summer with a collaborative, disabilities-community art project titled “UnchARTed Waters”, its inaugural entry into Artown. The artwork, which was created by individuals with Down syndrome or other developmental disabilities at iCelerate (formerly High Sierra Industries), will be on exhibit at Sierra Arts through June 16, then moves to Wild River Grille and The Discovery through July 2019.

The artwork project – and Artown inclusion – is the collaboration of Bridgewater Swim Academy, DSNNN, iCelerate and Sierra Arts. The purpose of the collaborative art project is to empower the artists with developmental disabilities to express their creativity through movement, motion and wonder. The artwork is created with the intention of welcoming a sensory experience through printmaking, painting with hands, and the use of a variety of textured gloves, large sweeping motions, and watercolor techniques.

Holly Sprague, owner and director of Bridgewater Swim Academy, is a DSNNN board member and the visionary of the project. Sprague is passionate about art, about inclusion and empowerment, and about supporting the wider community. “I experienced first-hand the joy, challenge and privilege of having a sister with a developmental disability. I get to work with individuals with disabilities every day, and feel so blessed to do so.” commented Sprague.

The Down Syndrome Network of Northern Nevada works to empower individuals with Down syndrome or other developmental disabilities to be fully included in their community. DSNNN advocates for individuals with Down syndrome or other developmental disabilities – and their families – to break down any barriers to full, productive and satisfying lives. Bridgewater Swim Academy instructs all ages and stages. iCelerate serves individuals with disabilities to lead productive lives.