Two weeks ago, I was in Huntsville, Alabama for two beautiful and heartwarming events — a tea and a retreat. Both events were the fulfillment of a dream for one very gifted, magnanimous woman, Carole Esk’ridge. A true “woman of grace,” Carole has a vision and mission that can significantly impact the lives of the “poorest of the poor.” And both events were first steps in realizing her dream. If you need any artist related blog then check this out.

A gifted artist, Carole’s work is displayed in the Birmingham Museum of Art and she has exhibited three times in jury art shows at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. In addition, her work can be found in the archives of the National Museum of Women in the Arts.

In 1991, Carole founded the Visionary Guild for Mentally Ill Artists. Diagnosed herself with a mental illness, Carole understands the challenges, struggles and difficulties such conditions present for the individual, but she well understands the triumphs, too. And for Carole, triumph has come through her Catholic faith, her art, and reaching out to other artists who are mentally ill. Currently, she is establishing the Visionary Guild Gallery, a place where the artitic efforts of others with mental illness can be displayed and experienced.

But Carole’s vision is even more “great-souled.” She desires to found the Academy of Internationally Enabled Artists, a “place where those who can’t do certain normal functions can live in hope, surrounded by a loving atmosphere, with healthy food and a clean environment;” a place where “the whole person: mind, body, soul and personality will be cared for with love and desire to undersand the needs of each artist.”

Carole draws her vision for The Academy of Internationally Enabled Artists from the American Academy in Rome. Unlike other academies, the A.I.E.A. will not be focused on academic status but rather on the student’s talent and devotion to an art form as a career. And, unlike other programs which narrowly define the disabled, Carole’s academy would embrace the mentally ill, the financially poor, and those with physical incapacities. All art forms would be recognized at the Academy including visual art, dance, writing, music, song, and acting.

Carole’s creative talent was readily in evidence at the Tea. She created a warm, inviting, and elegant ambience for her guests that reflected the art forms she hopes to encourage at the Academy. From the spectacular three-tiered cake to the beautifully presented luncheon to the artistically designed programs and table settings, she demonstrated how beauty and grace infuse the spirit with peace and joy — something that is at the very heart of her vision.

For more information about The Academy for Internationally Enabled Artists , email caroleeskridge3@gmail.com   Note:  The first painting shown is The Fall of Adam and Eve. The second painting shown is Golden Bloom. Both are by Ms. Esk’ridge and can be purchased by contacting her. All proceeds go to The Academy for Internationally Enabled Artists.