Tag Archive for: Celia Hughes

Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities

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RAMPD.  It’s the latest indication that disabled musicians are emerging as bonafide able musicians. 

The Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities was started in 2021.  Two handicapped musicians got tired of venues that were not ADA compliant. Founders Gaelynn Lea and Lachi also got tired of those who couldn’t see past the musician’s disability. 

Watch Gaelynn play the violin and sing here. 

Keep in mind that this month is the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act on July 26th.

Disability Champ ART SPARK Texas Names Its Annual Winners

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Every year Art Spark Texas chooses five or more artists who are disabled as winners of their annual awards. 

Celia Hughes, Executive Director, says the categories range from Artist of the Year Award,  the Gloria Bond Creative Aging Award, the Creative Veteran Service Award and several others.

In this Staccato, we focus on the 2025 SPARK Award winner Zachary LaViola of Austin whose autism and other issues does not prevent him from being a classical pianist.

There’s also filmmaker Matthew Alaniz, of Austin, TX, who is recognized as an artist who elevates disability awareness through digital or media art. You can see one of his movies “Ten To One” here.

Celia Hughes & Matthew Alaniz

Art Spark is now calling for Submissions for the 16th Annual Distinguished Artist Veterans Exhibit.