Courage Kenny Art Showcase Offers Power of Healing

In the Bloomington studio of artist Sandra Muzzy, you’re surrounded by images of butterflies, plants and rhinos.

“They all tell a story,” Muzzy said. “It might not be a very exciting story, but it’s a story.”

Each piece is painted in intricate detail using water colors.

“I am lucky my studio is this big, and I’m probably lucky it isn’t any bigger,” Muzzy said. “Because I paint and I paint and I paint and there’s just too much of them.”

There’s one other reason Muzzy considers herself lucky. A year and a half ago, she suffered a stroke.

“I had a friend with me, and the ambulance came in three minutes,” Muzzy said. “And I think if I had not had that, I would have died.”

The incident affected her speech, but it didn’t take away her ability to paint.

“My hands still work fine. It’s just my brain that’s fried. My hands still work fine,” she said.

Starting April 26 in Golden Valley, two pieces Muzzy painted with those hands will be on display at Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Center during the annual Art of Possibilities Art Show & Sale.

“The stories behind the artwork are really incredible and inspiring,” said Laura Brooks, the coordinator of the art show.

Now in its 54th year, the Art of Possibilities exhibit features more than 250 pieces from around the world, created by artists with physical and cognitive disabilities.

“You know, we all have challenges, and then you read some of these personal stories about these artists and you are just inspired to be better,” Brooks said.

The Art of Possibilities show includes pieces ranging from paintings to photography to sculpture.

“Our goal is to sell every piece in the show, so it’s really empowering for people with disabilities to have their artwork displayed and have the opportunity to sell it,” Brooks said.

For Muzzy, after suffering a life-altering medical emergency, she’s just grateful for the opportunity.

“It gives me a kick to know that my work is getting out,” Muzzy said.

The Art of Possibilities show runs through May 18 at the Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Center in Golden Valley. The public is invited to an opening reception on April 26 at 5:30 p.m.

Golden Valley