Art / Student Spotlight / David

In the Student Spotlight: David

David prefers to go by just his initials, D.J. Most 13-year-olds express their individuality, especially when they are artists and D.J. is no exception. Living with autism, which impairs his language abilities but not his desire to create, influences his artistic tendencies. Raised in Katy since he was 11 months old, D.J. is home-schooled and passionately studies science. He wants to be an astronaut when he grows up. "D.J.'s abilities far out-weigh his disability," his mother, Karen, proudly says. "He is able to accomplish so much."

KVPAC visual arts classes allow D.J. to explore various media such as painting, drawing, clay and more. "DJ was a pleasure to have in class and he is the ideal student," says his teacher Cindi Gardner. "He follows instructions, he is polite, cheerful, works hard and is enthusiastic about making art. Participation in the arts-based integrated classes has therapeutic benefits for students of all abilities. At KVPAC we provide a creative outlet for students to be successful and they feel proud of their accomplishments. We accommodate students with special needs in consultation with his or her parent."

Years ago, while attending a private school, D.J. went on a field trip to KVPAC at its original location in old Katy. He always remembered how much he liked the experience and decided that he would start taking art classes. "After attending his first class, he would talk about how much fun he had," his Mom explained. "We knew KVPAC made a wonderful impression on him. He continues to enjoy making wonderful art projects and is always eager to attend class." D.J.'s favorite class is World of Art and especially loves working with clay. He is most proud of his "bronze" clay self-portrait.

When not in art class, D.J. enjoys riding motorcycles, Tae Kwon Do, playing the piano, horseback riding, swimming, playing baseball, traveling, going to museums and seeing the latest movies. His short-term goals are to test for his next belt (orange) in Tae Kwon Do and read all the Lord of the Rings novels. His mom says he might even try his hand at writing a short story of his own.

KVPAC is proud to have D.J. as a student and the staff looks forward to watching him grow and continue to express himself. He is as artistically creative and musically talented, as he is ambitious - a winning combination.