7 Reasons We Like Art

Here at GiGi’s Playhouse Quad Cities, we are gearing up for our second annual Art Show & Auction. This year, we are hosting two nights of art from 5-7 pm.

Thursday, February 19^th is VIP Night for sponsors, community partners, and those who are looking for a quiet night with appetizers and adult beverages. VIP attendees will receive the first look at the art available and be able to bid early, along with having exclusive items that are only available on Thursday night.

Friday, February 20^th is Family & Friends Night. We encourage families to join us for cookies and cocoa while they browse the art. There will also be art stations set up for our younger friends to complete some art projects to take home with them.

Much of the art was created during our Art Explosion programs, but you’ll also see special pieces from our one-on-one participants, group speech programs, and more. Some of the Art programs and projects were made possible thanks to a grant from HAV Life Foundation. There are also pieces that have been donated by family members, community groups, and local artists.

Many thanks to Scooter’s Coffee, Cookies & Dreams, and Royal Neighbors Chapter 20044 for their help in making this event possible.

🎫We’d love for you to join us! You can register at this link.

📌A brief recap from our 1^st Art Show held in 2025 can be seen on our previous blog linked here.

Why Art? Here are 7 reasons we like art!

Art offers powerful and meaningful benefits for individuals with Down syndrome, supporting growth across social, emotional, cognitive, and physical areas. Here are some of the key ways art makes a difference:

🎨 Supports Communication & Expression

Art provides a nonverbal way to express thoughts, emotions, and ideas—especially helpful for individuals who may have speech or language delays. Creating art can help them share feelings they might not yet have words for.

🧠 Builds Cognitive & Learning Skills

Art activities encourage problem-solving, planning, decision-making, and creativity. Following steps, choosing colors or materials, and completing a project all strengthen cognitive development.

✋ Improves Fine Motor Skills

Drawing, painting, cutting, sculpting, and crafting help strengthen hand muscles, coordination, and control—skills that translate to daily living tasks like writing, buttoning, and using utensils.

💬 Encourages Social Interaction

Group art programs promote socialization, turn-taking, collaboration, and peer connection. Art becomes a shared experience that builds friendships and a sense of belonging.

💛 Boosts Confidence & Self-Esteem

Creating something tangible fosters pride and accomplishment. When artwork is displayed or celebrated, individuals feel valued and recognized for their abilities.

🧘 Supports Emotional Regulation

Art can be calming and therapeutic. It helps reduce stress, manage big emotions, and provide a positive outlet for self-regulation and focus.

🌟 Celebrates Individuality & Strengths

Art honors each person’s unique style, perspective, and creativity—shifting the focus from limitations to abilities.