Unique art show in Fallbrook opens April 23

Rick Monroe

Special to the Village News

Four area young adults with special needs will show their art on Saturday, April 23, beginning with a reception 4-7 p.m. at 105 n.main, an art gallery at 105 N. Main Ave. in downtown Fallbrook.

The artists – Chase, Nicholas, Summer and Alexis – are students of Suzette Phillips of Kabod Art Studio. She said she started teaching adults with disabilities 8-9 years ago how to draw portraits, and now works with students 15 and older with special needs.

"COVID shut the doors on that but now I'm working with some new students, each with a different style," Phillips said. "I help give them a purpose and vision as they create some wonderful work."

The instructor said she or her daughter, Raygen Phillips, (both are accomplished artists) will usually sketch something the student shares with them. Then the students paint, selecting colors and style. They use acrylic paint, spray paint, markers, etc., and use canvases, skateboard decks, surfboards or any hard surface.

"We're always trying to find that original thought and unique style for each individual," the teacher said. "We set them up for success and they are amazing in what they accomplish. Their personalities show. It's interesting how they see the world and others. It's very beautiful. Each has sold art now, so they are professionals!"

One of the students likes cartoons, from Peanuts to action figures like the Incredible Hulk. Another likes the style of Frida Kahlo from Mexico.

"I believe Suzette has a gift," said Lisa Sales, mother of student Chase Sales. "She has the ability to welcome her unique students, make them feel unconditionally loved and free them to create without inhibition. She has an overflowing amount of fun energy that usually sets Chase to singing and occasionally dancing."

"She has given Chase the opportunity to show off his talent and receive undivided recognition for the first time in his life. He is so proud of his paintings, and he literally beams when his work is complimented," Lisa Sales explained. "His new confidence is spilling into other areas of his life. He has painted over 60 paintings since he began in late 2020 and has sold over a dozen, many for $500 and the latest for $700."

Phillips, for her part, said the work gives her joy.

"This is all I want to do for the rest of my life," she said. "I see no 'dis' in the abilities of my students. In fact, I covet their abilities to love, to care more about relationships than trends."

The studio name, Kabod, means "the glory of God," she said.

"My students are beautiful and have so much to offer the world," she added. "They're amazing!"

This is the first show in Fallbrook for the student artists. There is an annual show in Oceanside where they are featured.

For information about Kabod Art Studio, located in Phillips' Vista home, call 760-655-6342.

The art exhibit in Fallbrook will remain on display through mid-May. For information about the reception on April 23, call 760-451-6452.