ARVADA —When Paul Thompson sits down to paint, draw or create ceramic sculptures, amazing things happen.
“I’m learning a lot … it’s been a good experience for me,” Thompson said. “I get to make pictures for everybody. They’re beautiful and it’s a good feeling knowing they’re on someone’s wall.”
Thompson, 48, has a cognitive disability and paralysis in the back of his throat, He’s one of many artists who have participated in the Art & Soul program organized by the
The 52-year-old nonprofit, among many other things, pairs adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities with mentor artists who offer instruction and support in painting, ceramics, drawing and other art.
For 15 years, Thompson has been working with graphic artist and retired National Park Service employee Ruth Eitel. Since the pair began working together, his detailed, vibrant paintings of birds and other wildlife have been displayed in the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, D.C., and shown in exhibits across the Denver area.
He’s quick to point out that he’s sold a number of his creative works, garnering him extra income.
“I’ve learned to do this on my own with the help of Ruth,” Thompson said.
Eitel said Thompson is the only student she’s worked with these 15 years. The two meet once a week at the home Thompson shares with his parents, Harry and Betsy Thompson, to draw, paint and mold ceramic sculptures.
“At first I didn’t know if I could be an art teacher. but this has really been a rewarding experience for both of us,” Eitel said. “We really struggled through this together at first, but I’ve probably learned more from him than he has from me.”
Paul Thomspon’s father praised the collaboration.
“This gives him an interest, something to look forward to. The first time he sold one of his paintings, he was so happy about it,” Harry Thompson said. “Years ago, with his speech impediment, you couldn’t understand him, but he’s gotten so much better.”
Ron Marquez, the director of community relations for the Developmental Disabilities Resource Center, said the program offers an opportunity for adult artists to express themselves in a supportive and friendly environment while developing life skills such as social interaction while boosting self-confidence.
“I think the artist mentor benefits by doing something good for mankind and helping somebody, and our clients learn a skill they can market and sell, and become more independent,” Marquez added.
The resource center works with around 3,500 clients a year. The Art & Soul program has gone from having 50 mentors working with clients to having those numbers dwindle to almost nothing.
The list is practically endless for adults in the program wanting to work with an established artist, Marquez said. once they age out of services provided by school districts; and the transition away from a bustling social environment can be difficult.
“We have many talented men and women waiting for a volunteer art mentor to help them explore new creative opportunities,” echoed April Richey, project facilitator and volunteer coordinator for the resource center.
Austin Briggs: 303-954-1729, abriggs@denverpost.com or twitter.com/abriggs
Info
For more information about the Art & Soul program, visit or call April Richey at 303-462-6585.
