About VSA

VSA arts is an international nonprofit organization founded in 1974 by Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith to create a society where people with disabilities learn through, participate in, and enjoy the arts. VSA arts provides educators, parents, and artists with resources and the tools to support arts programming in schools and communities. VSA arts showcases the accomplishments of artists with disabilities and promotes increased access to the arts for people with disabilities. Each year millions of people participate in VSA arts programs through a nationwide network of affiliates and in 55 countries around the world. VSA arts is an affiliate of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

VSA arts is fulfilling a vital role by highlighting the significant accomplishments of individuals with disabilities who demonstrate commitment to pursue the arts.  With exhibitions such as Derivative Composition, VSA arts integrates artists and their work within the cultural community. Exhibitions such as these also allow for greater dialogue and understanding of the importance of full access.  To learn more about VSA arts and our touring exhibitions, visit www.vsarts.org.

Guiding Principles:

• Every young person with a disability deserves access to high-quality arts learning experiences.
• All artists in schools and art educators should be prepared to include students with disabilities in their instruction.
• All children, youth, and adults with disabilities should have complete access to community cultural facilities and activities.
• All individuals with disabilities who aspire to careers in the arts should have the opportunity to develop appropriate skills.

Advisory Board of Directors

Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith, Founder
Dr. Ronald I. Dozoretz, Chairman
Soula Antoniou, President
Maha Al-Juffali Ghandour
David Geanacopoulos
Lucy Lehman
Gerald and Paula McNichols
Thomas E. Wheeler