Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin, in collaboration with Bresler Eitel Art & Framing Gallery, presents "Creativity in Bloom" art exhibition. The show will be on view at Bresler Eitel from July 25th through August 26th, with a reception on Gallery Night, Friday July 29th from 5:00 to 8:00 pm. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday 8:30-5:00, and Saturday from 9:00 to 1:00 or by appointment. All works on view are available for purchase.

"Creativity in Bloom" is the first exhibition of artwork from Goodwill's Artistic Enhancement Program. This program provides art therapy and art classes for Goodwill's consumers with disabilities. The joint venture between Goodwill and Bresler Eitel gives recognition to the often overlooked viability and diversity of talent among artists with disabilities.

The exhibition features a variety of subjects executed through painting and drawing with an overall atmosphere of unpretentious naiveté. The artists represented in the show lack the self-consciousness often present in the work of trained artists. They do not possess the knowledge of art tradition and therefore are able to exhibit the raw creative energies that most trained artists struggle to achieve. This innocence affords these individuals the opportunity to create art with a purity of motivation and a freshness of passion that reflects how they perceive and interpret the world. Through art, these artists overcome the limitations of everyday life in the world.

Goodwill's year-long art program offers the opportunity for learning and provides a creative channel for the individuals to gain self-confidence and greater independence. An array of experiences, from working with local practicing artists to selling their own work, has exposed them to the local art community and given participants an identity as true artists. As a result, there is a more heightened awareness of the talents and creativity of persons with disabilities. Their inclusion in "Creativity in Bloom" reflects this rich connection with the community.

Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin is one of the largest among 207 Goodwill organizations in North America and 22 other countries. At the end of 2004, the organization served over 12,000 individuals and placed 2,680 men and women into competitive employment. Goodwill channels 93% of its revenue into its programs and services. colorful abstract paintings.