Celebrating Creativity Beyond Boundaries: HKNC’s “Through Our Hands” Art Exhibit
HKNC's "Through Our Hands: Creativity Through Touch and Expression" showcases the extraordinary artistic talent of our DeafBlind participants. This tactile exhibition at The Art Guild demonstrates how art transcends boundaries to become a powerful language of communication, connection, and creative expression.
The opening night of “Through Our Hands: Creativity Through Touch and Expression” was nothing short of extraordinary. On July 16th, visitors at The Art Guild in Manhasset experienced art in an entirely new way—one that celebrates the unique perspectives and boundless creativity of the DeafBlind community.
Where Art Becomes Language
In HKNC’s creative arts program, the art room serves as more than just a space for artistic exploration. It’s a sanctuary where participants can unwind after days filled with learning communication skills, orientation and mobility techniques, and adaptive technology. Under the expert guidance of art therapist Antonia Isnardi, what often begins with hesitation, transforms into enthusiastic creative expression and deep personal pride.
For our DeafBlind participants, art transcends traditional boundaries. It becomes a powerful language of its own—a means of communication when spoken words may not be accessible, and a bridge for connection, reflection, and sharing one’s lived experience. Each piece displayed tells a story of perseverance, problem-solving, and the thoughtful choices that emerge through the creative process.
A Community Celebration
The partnership with The Art Guild provided the perfect venue for showcasing these meaningful works. Thanks to the generous sponsorship from Hearts PW, this tactile exhibition invited visitors to experience art through multiple senses—encouraging them to touch, connect, and truly engage with each creation.
Executive Director Lisa Grossman, Gallery Director Katie Bellomo, and Art Director Tracy Lefkowitz from The Art Guild ensured that this exhibition became an opportunity for genuine community connection and better understanding of the lived experiences within the DeafBlind community.
The Power of Touch and Expression
The exhibit features an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and mixed media pieces that demonstrate how creativity knows no boundaries. Whether molded in clay, woven in fabric, brushed onto canvas, or composed in digital form, each creation invites viewers to pause and appreciate the artists’ connection to their work and the deeper meaning behind every piece.
This collection showcases the incredible talent that emerges when individuals have the encouragement to explore their artistic potential. Through HKNC’s creative arts program, participants discover new pathways for expression and empowerment, often finding artistic passion for the first time or developing existing skills to new heights.
Building Understanding Through Art
As visitors moved through the exhibition, they experienced firsthand how art serves as a universal language that transcends barriers. The tactile nature of the show offered new ways of sensing and understanding the artists’ perspectives, fostering the kind of inclusive connections that strengthen our entire community.
The exhibit, running through August 5th, continues to welcome visitors to explore these extraordinary works and experience art designed to be touched and felt. Each piece demonstrates that with the right support and opportunities, creativity and imagination can flourish without limits.
Looking Forward
“Through Our Hands” celebrates resilience, creativity, and the unique artistic voices of our participants. We’re grateful to The Art Guild and Hearts PW for making this meaningful exhibition possible, and to everyone who joined us to experience the artwork created by our DeafBlind participants. The success of this show reinforces our commitment to fostering spaces where creativity thrives and where every individual’s unique perspective enriches our the community.
Visit the Exhibition
“Through Our Hands: Creativity Through Touch and Expression” continues through August 5th, 2025 at:
The Art Guild
200 Port Washington Boulevard
Manhasset, NY 11030
www.theartguild.org
Gallery hours and additional information are available on The Art Guild’s website. We encourage visitors to experience this unique tactile exhibition and discover art in an entirely new way.
Creative Arts as Essential Support
HKNC’s creative arts therapy operates as one of the vital support services within our renowned Comprehensive Vocational Rehabilitation Program (CVRP). As the only national program exclusively for individuals with combined hearing and vision loss, HKNC provides personalized training essential for independence, employment, and achievement.
The CVRP encompasses specialized instruction in adaptive technology, communication skills, orientation and mobility, and independent living, all complemented by comprehensive support services including audiology, low vision, rehabilitation counseling, creative arts, medical care, mental health services, and professional interpreting. This holistic approach recognizes that emotional well-being is fundamental to successful rehabilitation and community integration.
Art therapy serves as both a therapeutic outlet and a practical communication tool, helping participants develop confidence, process experiences, and discover new ways to express themselves. Like other specialized support services at HKNC, this program is tailored to each individual, ensuring that artistic exploration becomes part of their journey toward independence and meaningful community engagement.
The Helen Keller National Center for DeafBlind Youths and Adults is the only national comprehensive vocational and rehabilitation program exclusively for individuals with combined hearing and vision loss. Through innovative programs and community partnerships, HKNC empowers individuals to live, work, and thrive in their communities of choice.
