Columbia Ramps Up For Annual Art Exhibit

Ramp Art began in 1996 when four local artists donated their paintings to raise money to construct wheelchair ramps in Columbia, Missouri. Last year over 95 artists donated their works to this annual art exhibition and sale, and this years May event is expected to attract even more participants. The proceeds raised from this popular fund-raiser help Columbia-based Services for Independent Living (SIL) construct residential ramps for low income individuals. But Ramp Art is much more than just a fund-raiser; it's also a celebration of the diverse artistic talent in the disability community.

Presented by Very Special Arts (VSA) of Missouri, Ramp Art 2002 is billed as a visual arts exhibit and sale which showcases creations by Missourians with disabilities. Paintings, ceramics, weavings, jewelry and photographs are crafted by artists from all over Missouri, and then auctioned off to raise money for SIL. Since 1996, the proceeds from Ramp Art have purchased supplies to build 28 residential ramps. As one ramp recipient puts it, "Having a ramp has given me new freedom and independence to go places and do things in the community."

Ramp Art is held at Paul Jackson's Illumia Gallery, located at 916 E. Walnut, in downtown Columbia. Illumia was founded in October 2000 by Paul and Diana Jackson, in order to inspire, educate and nurture Columbia's artistic community.

The Ramp Art Gala features a silent auction, entertainment, food, and lots of great art. The art exhibition usually runs throughout the month of May, so drop by Illumia if you're in the area. For more information on the dates and times of the Ramp Art Gala, contact SIL at (573) 874-1646 or visit www.showmevsa.com.

Columbia, Missouri is located midway between St. Louis and Kansas City. Visit the Columbia Visitors Bureau on-line at www.visitcolumbiamo.com or call (573) 875-1231 for tourist information. Check out the Spring 2002 issue of Emerging Horizons for detailed information about accessible tourism options in the Columbia area.