Creativity without limits

Art & Music Camp for Special Needs

Free to join and open to individuals with physical and/or cognitive disabilities.

New to the program?

Apply Here

Already approved?

Questions? Contact Tracy Seconi at 803-641-9094 or email progmgr@aikencenterforthearts.org

Stories from Our Community

Jackson embraces how his disabilities give him a unique perspective to be an artist

Jackson has participated in multiple programs at the Aiken Center for the Arts over the years. When he began, he didn’t feel that he was an artist or even capable of making art. Over the years he has not only gained confidence in himself, but learned about different art styles and techniques, and found a passion for creativity. Jackson previously felt ashamed of his lack of fine motor skills and felt limited by his disabilities, now he embraces how his disabilities give him [a] unique perspective to be an artist!

Jackson stepped out of his comfort zone and applied to be in [an] art club last year. Without the programs offered through the Aiken Center for the Arts, he would never have had the confidence in himself to apply. There have also been therapeutic advantages of the programs he has attended. Often he will use art to express the emotion he is feeling but hasn’t been able to identify or a situation that’s been really tough to process. Jackson proudly displays his art at our home. He has two guitars now that he enjoys playing for visitors, and he always sings Skip To My Lou and recounts his time in the summer exploring instruments at Aiken center for the arts.

I remember trying to convince Jackson to make crafts with me when he was smaller. I was never successful, so I was nervous about art camp. Like any parent, I was nervous about bringing Jackson to art and music camp at the Aiken Center for the Arts for the first time. There are very few places in our area that offer programs for children with disabilities and Aiken Center for the Arts is the only program offering art for children of all abilities. Finding a place with quality instructors who are masters at their craft and a staff that have the perfect mix of patience, experience, and care has been life changing to our family. I can trust the staff instructors and volunteers. They have consistently built meaningful relationships with Jackson through the process of making art and exploring music. It takes a village (and more) to raise a child with multiple disabilities, and I am so thankful that the Aiken Center for the Arts is a part of our village!

Stephanie F. – Parent

This program gives them the gift of expression and the parents a glimpse into the mind of their child.

Anytime throughout the year, when there is a session, Henry is excited to see everyone and let his artistic expression shine. This program is a special opportunity for those of neurodivergences to experience and explore the art world in a way that neurotypicals take for granted. Music and art are windows to the soul and this program gives them the gift of expression and the parents a glimpse into the mind of their child that they may not have ever seen without this program.

As a parent who has reaped the benefits of this program, please see it in your hearts to not only continue funding the summer camp but perhaps expanding it to allow a class every month year round. Thank you.

Alicia Z. – Parent

He immediately says yes when asked if he wants to go to Aiken Center for the Arts.

I feel like Ian feels truly independent when he is at art. It is one place where he can be creative and free. He participates in several community-based activities because it is good for him to socialize and be a part of the community. He frequently tells me he doesn’t want to go to these activities; however, he immediately says yes when asked if he wants to go to Aiken Center for the Arts. He cannot necessarily express what it means to him because of his disability, but his enthusiasm for attending shows me that it is a place that he wants to be.

For his family, participation with Aiken Center for the Arts is a safe place where Ian feels happy, welcomed, and accepted. When I have attended family events with Ian, it is apparent that the volunteers and staff members truly love being there and making it a meaningful experience for individuals with disabilities. I love that he is with people who appreciate him for his unique talents and allow him to express himself

Michelle D. – Parent

She is unable to communicate, but her smile says it all.

My daughter, Kylee, has participated in the Aiken Center for the Arts special needs art classes/camps for several years. It has allowed her and I, and now her brother, to bond over art. She is unable to communicate, but her smiles says it all. We are so grateful to you for keeping these classes going for our special little ones, for the precious memories we will hold forever, and the artwork we get to display in our home. Thank you!

Laura O. – Parent

About Our Special Needs Art Program

Since 2017, the Aiken Center for the Arts has proudly offered this program to individuals with physical and/or cognitive disabilities.

We currently offer:

Two weeks of summer camp
Six one-day workshops throughout the year

Camps and workshops are designed to provide a welcoming and supportive space for participants to engage in both visual arts and musical activities, regardless of their skill level.

Meet your instructor

Keith Tolen – SC Arts Access Master Teacher

Keith Tolen is a visual artist and a former art educator with 35 years of experience. He has extensive experience teaching art to individuals with disabilities and leads each session with passion and expertise. Keith’s unique approach helps make art accessible and meaningful for all participants.

New to the program?

Apply Here

Already approved?

Our Community Impact

We hope the community will continue to recognize the value of this program, which provides deep, lasting impact to a special population. The Art & Music Camp for Special Needs is designed to enrich lives through positive, creative experiences.