MOMENTS OF MEANING
A PHOTOGRAPHIC ESSAY BY DENNIS WILKES
The Orange Grove Center in Chattanooga, Tennessee is a private, non-profit organization serving adults and children with intellectual and/or disabilities, one that is truly inclusive and diverse, and where all of its citizens have the skills and support necessary to live the life they want. Dennis Wilkes has been the Coordinator of the Creative Arts Program at Orange Grove for the past 44 years. At Orange Grove, art is a vital component of the services and programs that are designed to enrich and inspire meaning, as measured by such intangible but essential things as satisfaction, joy and a sense of well being.
In addition to teaching art, Dennis' responsibilities include phoT tographic documentation of all events, production of visual graphics as needed for display, and the preparation of photos and graphic images. His talent as an artist is evidenced in the moments that he captures and shares from behind the camera, documenting examples of sport and competition, artistic expression and performance, special friendships, daily routines and even quiet reflection. As we view these documents of unique moments, preserved with such grace and skill, we recognize the determination, exhilaration, pride, happiness and love that we all are fortunate to share in our human experience. •
ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER:
Dennis Wilkes is the Coordinator of the Creative Arts Program at the Orange Grove Center in Chattanooga, Tenn. Dennis is responsible for the creation of innovative programs in art expressions for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. He has been a celebrated artist, art teacher, craftsman, photographer and videographer for over 40 years. Dennis has contributed several covers to Exceptional Parent Magazine and has created many art projects at Orange Grove that illustrate the rich history of the disability.
WORK OF ART: Orange Grove's art, music and Special Olympics programs are important parts of its overall mission to recognize, support, and celebrate the qualities of the individual. Music, art, and physical activity stimulate different areas of the brain and are uniquely able to bring people together. These enrichment services take place all over the community.
EXPRESS YOURSELF: While serving as outlets to Orange Grove community members, art, music and athletics improve and enhance the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of individuals with the aim of developing interpersonal skills, managing behavior, reducing stress, and increasing self-esteem and self-awareness.
