Education

INREACH

InReach is a leader in providing housing, jobs and community support to adults with intellectual, developmental and other disabilities in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg and surrounding counties. The museum began partnering with InReach in 2011 by providing art classes, museum tours and special exhibitions of the participants' works. Museum staff and teaching artists plan and execute on-site residencies and explore modern art, artists and techniques.

2020 Drive Thru Artwork Showcase

While our doors are temporarily closed, the Bechtler remains fully committed to offering art, content, and experiences designed to engage and connect the community to the world of arts and culture. With this commitment in mind, Bechtler Craft Kits were assembled and delivered to many communities, including InReach, our community partner since 2011. The 100 kits specifically designed for InReach participants included artist prompts inspired by techniques and artists from the Bechtler collection and a variety of art supplies. In addition to the kits, Bechtler staff recorded video instructions on the many materials included, which was sent to all participants. From collage, to painting, to drawing, completed artwork began pouring in. While the Bechtler regularly showcases InReach artwork at the museum to celebrate the great work participants do each year in partnership with the museum, that was not possible this year. In place of an onsite showcase, the exhibition was brought outside to the community for a “Drive Thru Artist Showcase” highlighting the work created during Bechtler classes and with the aid of the Bechtler Craft Kits. Family, friends, coaches, and InReach staff were invited to either drive through or wear their masks to view the participants’ artwork. For those who were unable to attend, the pieces from the showcase are also available to view in a virtual gallery.

TESTIMONIALS

I like doing artwork here and I like doing my own artwork at home. - Participant

It’s really great for my daughter to have an opportunity to get out and be social. There aren’t a lot of opportunities like this for people her age. - Coach

The InReach participants look forward to the Bechtler art classes each year! Adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities have been awarded this wonderful opportunity to utilize their abilities and talents to create beautiful pieces of art. The instructors are patient, supportive and enthusiastic which creates a positive setting for our individuals to gain new skills, become more self-confident, and increase their self-determination.  InReach is truly grateful to the Bechtler for this community partnership and empowering the individuals served by InReach to realize their dreams. - Community Partner: Lori Gougeon, InReach, President / Chief Executive Officer  

He came to class without a coach. When he completed his project he helped his peers. He was glowing with pride, his self-esteem soaring as he showed others his work and guided their hands to success. This was his second time taking an art class with the Bechtler. As he walks into the room he hugs everyone he sees, tears running down his face. “He sometimes cries when he is really happy,” - Staff Member