Friendship Circle Celebrates Unique Expression with Ceramics

BRYN MAWR - It’s been said that art is the expression of a person’s innermost feelings, and the beautiful sculptures created by young people with special needs, set to be displayed at the third annual Friendship Circle Art Show, are no exception.

The Friendship Circle Philadelphia Region South will showcase the clay creations molded by Friendship Circle participants and their buddies during a free open house exhibit at the Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy, 272 S. Bryn Mawr Ave. Bryn Mawr from 2- 4:30 p.m. Jan. 14. Pieces will be available for purchase.

“This was a terrific opportunity for our participants to further bond with their teen buddies while also learning new skills,” said Jared Pashko, Outreach Coordinator. “The sculptures were so impressive and beautiful to look at and allowed each participant to really express themselves.”

Through hard work and guidance by expert artists, each participant created their own unique piece. Pashko said participants enjoyed the feel of modeling clay in their hands as they shaped their creations with their partners. Working with clay and other mediums of art can help individuals with special needs communicate their thoughts and feelings as they may have trouble expressing themselves otherwise. Working with their buddies can also help them grow and learn.

“Our volunteers really work well with their buddies and help create a great experience,” she said. “Seeing them knead the clay together and work to create something interesting and unique is just beautiful.”

For the third year in a row, Bear Givers has supported this collaborative artwork allowing Friendship Circle to hold the event free of charge. Bear Givers is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving others. The nonprofit's mission is to bring joy to those in need and to enable those in need to feel the pride and pleasure of giving to others. Bear Givers programs facilitate an environment where givers are empowered to bring happiness to others through acts of generosity and giving.

The Friendship Circle invites you to come and experience the great sculptures made by its participants and volunteers on display Jan. 14. Please visit www.phillyfriendship.com to RSVP.

About Friendship Circle

Originally founded by Lubavitch House in 2004, the organization serves families, children, and teens in the Philadelphia, Montgomery, Chester, and Delaware Counties. The Friendship Circle Philadelphia Region South connects teens and young adults to youth with special needs and their families, offering a full range of Jewish and social experiences. Together, they develop friendships while enjoying creative arts group activities, Jewish holiday celebrations, weekly playdates and more. These mutually rewarding relationships foster the development of a caring, supportive community. For more information, visit www.phillyfriendship.com