What My Community Means to Me

An ARCessible Art Collaboration with JMU

Join The Arc of Harrisonburg and Rockingham and James Madison University for an inclusive afternoon of art-making, connection, and community storytelling.

On Tuesday, July 21, from 1:30–4:30 p.m., Arc artists, JMU graduate students, and community artists of all skill levels will work together to create collage artwork inspired by the theme “What My Community Means to Me.”

Using images, memories, local artifacts, and meaningful representations of Harrisonburg, small groups will transform plywood panels into original works of art. The focus is on collaboration, creativity, and sharing the places, people, and experiences that make our community feel like home.

No prior art experience is needed—just bring your ideas, curiosity, and willingness to create alongside others.

Be Part of the Collaboration

Community artists and volunteers are welcome to join us for this special three-hour project. Participants will have the opportunity to create alongside Arc artists and JMU students while helping make an inclusive, community-centered exhibit possible.

To join the July 21 collaboration or learn more, email marketing@hrarc.org.

Volunteers who support the project will be recognized in The Arc’s marketing leading up to and during the exhibit. When available, we are also happy to mention and link to participating artists’ websites, portfolios, or creative work.

See the Artwork at First Friday

The completed artwork will be unveiled during Harrisonburg’s First Friday Art Walk on Friday, August 7, at Black Sheep Coffee. Join us to celebrate the artists, the collaboration, and the many ways our community is shaped by connection.

The exhibit will feature the collaborative panels created on July 21, along with opportunities to learn more about ARCessible Art and the creative work of artists with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

First Friday Opening Reception
Friday, August 7 | 5:00–7:00 p.m.
Black Sheep Coffee
Harrisonburg, VA

The artwork will remain on display throughout the month of August.

About ARCessible Art

ARCessible Art creates opportunities for artists with intellectual and developmental disabilities to create, collaborate, exhibit, and be recognized as part of the larger arts community in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County.

This project is made possible through a collaboration between The Arc of Harrisonburg and Rockingham and JMU’s PSYC 749 course, led by Dr. Cara Meixner.