Creativity has the power to connect us—across abilities, experiences, and perspectives. This February and March, the community is invited to experience that connection firsthand through Creative Connections, a gallery exhibition showcasing original artwork created by children and adults from Barber National Institute and the Elizabeth Lee Black School.  

The exhibition will be on display Friday, February 27 through Tuesday, March 31 at the public gallery space at Erie Arts & Culture, located at 419 State Street in downtown Erie. The exhibit will feature artwork created through artist‑in‑residency workshops in Erie and Warren, alongside student artwork from the Elizabeth Lee Black School—each piece offering a unique glimpse into the creativity, self‑expression, and individuality of the artists.  

The public is warmly invited to attend Opening Night on Friday, February 27, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., part of Erie’s citywide Gallery Night celebration. The exhibition will also be open Monday through Wednesday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., through March 31, providing multiple opportunities for the community to visit and reflect.  

Creative Connections is more than an art exhibit—it is a celebration of inclusion and a powerful reminder that creative expression is a universal language. Each piece tells a story, not defined by disability, but shaped by imagination, experience, and personal voice. By sharing this work in a public gallery space, the exhibition invites the community to see creativity through a broader, more inclusive lens. 

The gallery exhibition serves as one of several activities planned in recognition of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in March, a time dedicated to raising awareness, fostering understanding, and celebrating the contributions of individuals with developmental disabilities in our communities.  

Visitors are encouraged to take their time exploring the exhibit—engaging with the artwork, reflecting on the rich stories behind each piece, and celebrating the power of creativity to build connection and belonging. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a longtime supporter, or a first‑time visitor, Creative Connections offers an inspiring way to kick off a month focused on awareness, inclusion, and possibility.