Keshet artists to exhibit work at North Suburban YMCA

An art exhibit by participants from GADOL, Keshet's day program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities will be on display in the North Suburban YMCA's Community Gallery during the month of November. A reception will be held for the artists from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 4, at the Y, 2705 Techny Road, Northbrook.

The acronym GADOL stands for Giving Adults Daily Opportunities for Living. In Hebrew, the word "gadol" means big or great. Participants in this program are encouraged to think big, be creative, and experiment with different media and materials. The GADOL philosophy is that the art one creates becomes a tool for developing interpersonal skills, reducing stress, increasing self-esteem, and communicating ideas and emotions.

In addition, Keshet has partnered with the InFocus project, a local agency that works with self-advocates, families, and communities to enhance the image of people living with a disabilities. A section of the GADOL exhibit will include photography from these program participants.

"We are grateful to have the Beverly Goldstick Creative Arts Program, which encourages artistic expression through a variety of mediums offered at GADOL, including art, drama and music," commented Lisa Lew, MSW, LSW, C-ASWCM, Director of Adult Services at Keshet. The artwork included in the November exhibit is created by artists participating in this program at GADOL.

The North Suburban YMCA's Community Galleries support the local arts community by giving it a place to show and sell their works. For more information about the gallery, email Cathie Winnie at cwinnie@nsymca.org.