Local Artists' Works On Display At The Capital
Goodell shares local artwork with statewide audience
May 29, 2013

photo Pictured here, left to right, Terrill (Terri) Lair - Art Facilitator, Henry Wesley, Eric Barmore, Harry LaVoice, Sara Michalak - Art Facilitator, Brennan Ryel, Daniel Whitford, Eric Morrison and Assemblyman Goodell.
Assemblyman Andy Goodell (R,C,I-Chautauqua County) recently visited with local artists from the Aspire program to meet the artists before bringing their artwork to display in Albany. As part of an on-going program, artists create works that are sold with half of the proceeds going to the artist and the other half being invested back in Aspire iXpress Art Program.

"The artwork created through this program is magnificent and will bring an uplifting feeling to the halls of the legislative office building and to the homes of the lucky people who purchase the pieces," said Goodell. "Our local artists have created breathtaking works and they should be extremely proud of their accomplishments. I am honored to share these works with my colleagues and I want to extend a special thanks to all the artists for allowing me this opportunity."

The artwork will go on display this week at the Capital and will remain on display through the end of the legislative session. This year's artists include Brennan Ryel, Carrie Haas, Brie Ritenburg, Dan Whitford, Derek Kin, Derek McCullor, Eric Morrison, Harry LaVoice, Henry Wesley, Katie Spence and Martha Kuhlman.

photo Pictured, left to right, Brie Ritenburg, Carrie Haas, Assemblyman Goodell and Derek McCullor.

"The staff and volunteers at Aspire of WNY put together a remarkable program that truly fosters the talent and creativity of these individuals. I want to thank them for continuing to include me in this outstanding program," concluded Goodell.

Aspire of WNY is a comprehensive provider of programs and services for adults and children with developmental disabilities including, but not limited to, cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities, epilepsy, autism, traumatic brain injury and other neurological impairments. The iXpress Art Program encourages empowerment, self expression and greater community involvement. Providing a full spectrum of the arts, iXpress accommodates the unique creativity and ability of each individual, offers wider contact with the natural and constructed environments and their array of resources, and continues to develop opportunities for greater artistic merit.