By Stephen Appezzato
MIDDLETOWN – Interns at Oasis tlc, a vibrant community for adults with autism, are breaking into the art world, crafting thoughtful and unfiltered expressions and celebrating individuality. This weekend, Two River residents can catch a glimpse of their work – and even purchase it – at a special lunch and art show event.
The term “outsider art” was coined in 1972 and refers to work by artists who haven’t had formal art training or been a part of the art establishment. In recent years, the outsider art movement has taken off, characterized by its unfiltered perspectives into each artist’s mind.
“They’re (interns) painting what they’re seeing in their head,” explained Sarah Hilton, longtime artist and art instructor at Oasis tlc.
“You’re not hampered by trying to do something else, to copy something.”
For years, Hilton worked in the art world. A Rumson native, she moved to California where she crafted displays for big box retailers like Macy’s, honing her art skills and eventually returning to the area, offering art lessons. Around 2012, Hilton stopped by Oasis tlc’s farm in Middletown, offering her services to the organization. What began as occasional art classes evolved into a full-fledged program, like a college semester, where Oasis’ students are exposed to various art techniques and mediums.
Now, Hilton teaches three three-hour classes each week, usually featuring five students who immerse themselves in a rich variety of artistic techniques and materials. Hilton has noticed a growing sense of pride among her students. “The group is getting bigger, and you can tell they’re passionate about their work. They discuss it,” she said. “They’ve absolutely got some kind of a focus of what they want to do.”
A brief walk around Oasis’ temporary gallery reveals a range of artistic styles and expressions, from realistic and detailed depictions of animals and settings to more free-flowing and abstract works. Throughout the year, the pieces the interns create are displayed in Carton Brewing Company’s tasting room in Atlantic Highlands, where they often sell. Proceeds go directly to each artist.
“I think people, especially people with autism, see differently, and it creates a different look on painting,” said Oasis tlc cofounder and executive director Mai Cleary.
“The variety is just so good,” Hilton added.
As the popularity of outsider art continues to rise among collectors and curators, the students at Oasis are carving out a space for their voices in the art world. Their work serves as a powerful reflection of the ways they perceive the world around them. Hilton believes this authenticity is what makes their art so compelling.
“They’re not hampered by trying to copy something. It’s a mirror of their minds,” she said.
To showcase their work, the community at Oasis tlc is gearing up for a special fundraiser this weekend. On Nov. 2 the nonprofit will host its Taste of Tuscany event, featuring specialty foods made by Chris and Debbie Mumford, Casey Pesce, and Valerie and Michael Aufiero. At the event, attendees can purchase art pieces in an art show and silent auction. Visitors must RSVP to Oasis on its website to attend.
The article originally appeared in the October 31 – November 6, 2024 print edition of The Two River Times.
