Visions Revealed at upcoming exhibit

NORWALK — Artists' Open Studio (AOS) is hosting its 22nd Annual Visions Revealed Art Exhibit from June 27 through July 25. The exhibit is at the AOS Gallery, 32 East Main Street in downtown Norwalk. The exhibit features original paintings, drawings, ceramics and mixed media created by adults with disabilities who take part in AOS programs. More than 50 AOS artists will have their work on display. The exhibit opens with a free public reception on Saturday, June 27, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Everyone is welcome to come meet the artists, see the work and purchase art directly from the artists who created it. "This exhibit is one of the highlights of our year," said Lindsey Esker, executive director of Artists' Open Studio. "Visions Revealed celebrates the creativity, individuality and accomplishments of our artists while giving our community an opportunity to experience artwork that is authentic, meaningful and inspiring. Every piece tells a story, and every artist deserves the opportunity to have their work seen and appreciated." A new voice in the gallery One of the most exciting stories this year belongs to Alberta Doneghy. Alberta is showing her work in the AOS Gallery for the first time, having just joined AOS during the Winter 2026 session. She had been on the waitlist since 2022. In just eight weeks, she tried drawing and watercolor before finding her passion: acrylic painting. She developed a series of detailed, captivating works that will be part of this year's exhibit. Alberta is quiet during studio sessions or maybe just deeply focused. Her dedication shows in every piece she makes. On the last day of her winter session, she shared that she didn't want her time at AOS to end and that she loves being there. Her painting, "My Vase," inspired a window display at the AOS Gallery. Staff artist Oliver St. Clair created a larger-than-life installation based on her work. Together, the pieces show what becomes possible when the door opens for a new artist. Statewide recognition for AOS This year's exhibit comes as AOS receives a major honor. Artists' Open Studio is the 2026 State Winner of the Ohio Art Education Association's Distinguished Organization for Art Education Award. AOS was nominated by Katy Laser. The award will be presented at the Ohio Art Education Association's Distinguished Organization Annual Conference on Nov. 20. Raffle Basket Fundraiser Along with the exhibit, AOS is hosting its annual Raffle Basket Fundraiser. This year features 16 themed baskets filled with prizes donated by local businesses and supporters. Raffle tickets are on sale now online and at the gallery. The raffle runs through July 25. Money raised goes toward free art classes, gallery space and paid creative work for adults with disabilities. "Whether someone buys a piece of artwork, purchases a raffle ticket, or simply visits the exhibit, they are helping create opportunities for artists with disabilities to keep creating, exhibiting, and sharing their work," Esker said. Plan your visit The Visions Revealed exhibit is free and open to the public. Gallery hours are: • Tuesdays and Thursdays: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. • Fridays and Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. • Buy raffle tickets online at artistsopenstudioinc.square.site or at the gallery. For more information, visit AOS at 32 East Main Street in Norwalk and follow Artists' Open Studio on Facebook and Instagram.