Loomis Village Artist Gallery Features Art by Berkshire Hills Music Academy Students

SOUTH HADLEY — The public is welcome to view a new exhibit recently opened at the Loomis Village retirement community at 20 Bayon Dr., South Hadley, showcasing works of art by students from Berkshire Hills Music Academy (BHMA).

The exhibit opened with an artist reception on Oct. 20. The artwork is displayed in Loomis Village’s second- and third-floor galleries for the next several weeks, and is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

BHMA is a unique, college-like program for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are looking to expand their social, vocational, and life skills in a music-infused environment. The nonprofit was founded in 1999 by a group of dedicated parents and professionals, and is among the first of its kind to use music to help individuals with disabilities grow their independent-living skills.

The artwork displayed at Loomis Village is created by students in BHMA’s Ascending Artist Program, where students have the opportunity to engage in an atmosphere where their commitment to the arts can thrive, while building transferable work and social skills. The program’s goal is to instill beauty into the community by raising disability awareness, changing perceptions of ability, and supporting students on their journey toward creative employment. The artists receive profits from the sale of their work.