Artists imagine no limitations

The work of disabled artists takes a professional turn as both the artists and UPARC reap the benefits at a longstanding fundraiser.

DUNEDIN - Student Randy Nadzam doesn't talk much in art class. Instead, the 38-year-old focuses intently as he creates a composition of bamboo leaves in blues and greens.

David Roscoe, 56, is drawing a picture of two men within a large red heart. He said it is himself with his father, who has passed away. "I miss him," he says with a heavy sigh.

Dale Caldwell, 32, likes to draw seashells with markers. "I see these at Sand Key Park," he said.

They are among the 17 mentally and physically challenged adults who have visited the Dunedin Fine Art Center every Tuesday evening since November for an hourlong art class called Just Imagine.

There, they can pursue their thoughts, emotions and creativity with paints, markers, oils, acrylics and craft supplies.

The classes at the center have been offered to this special population for the past 30 years at no charge, though they may make a voluntary donation of $1 each week for art supplies.

"It's a wonderful way for them to build self-esteem," said Pamela Miller, director of development for Upper Pinellas Association for Retarded Citizens Foundation. "And there is a purpose for their creativity. They can receive money for their talents."

Today and Saturday, 30 of their selected works of art will be mounted, displayed and offered for sale - just like the professionals do - at the Belleair home of Kevin and Angela Hawkins.

"There were about 100 to choose from," said teacher Frances Redmond, or Fritzie, as her students call her. "Of course, I think each one is a masterpiece."

Redmond is a retired psychologist who has been painting for 60 years. She teaches the art class with the aid of several community volunteers.

Tonight's event, dubbed the Omelette Party, was first held in 1967 as a fundraiser for UPARC. The chef, Rudolph Standish, worked at Goldman Sachs in New York City and was known then as the Omelette King.

He traveled to this area every year for decades, and he prepared omeletes, crepes and fancy dishes for "An Evening with Chef D'Oeuf," which means An Evening with Chef of the Egg.

Now in his 90s, he no longer makes the trip, but the tradition continues.

In 1978, the event was extended to include "Le Petit Dejeuner," a luncheon party the following day.

In their 37-year-history, the Omelette Parties and the luncheons have raised more than $2.3-million for UPARC.

The money comes from ticket sales and donations; the artists get to keep the money made from sale of their work.

Lonni Pickett, 45, found out Tuesday night that her acrylic painting depicting a swirling rainbow with clouds and water would be for sale at the show.

"I think it is great," she said. "God gave me talent and I draw all the time, ever since I was 5."

The Omelette Party will be at 7:30 p.m. today in the Belleair home of Kevin and Angela Hawkins. Tickets are $200 each. The "Le Petit Dejeuner" luncheon will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday in the Hawkins home. Tickets are $80 each. Exotic plants used to decorate the home will go on sale at 2:30 p.m. after the luncheon. The public is invited to attend the plant sale. All proceeds benefit UPARC. Contact UPARC at 797-8712 for information on reservations or directions to the parties.

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