Community Inclusion and Development Alliance

Very Special Art Festival

Founded by Community Inclusion & Development Alliance (CIDA) in 2016, the Very Special Art Festival (VSAF) celebrates the creativity, talents, and achievements of young artists with disabilities while promoting a more inclusive community through the arts.

More than an art event, VSAF brings together artists, families, students, volunteers, and community members to learn from one another, build connections, and advance the inclusion of people with disabilities. Through exhibitions, interactive activities, and community engagement, the festival creates opportunities for artists with disabilities to showcase their work, gain recognition, and share their unique perspectives.

Over the years, many participants have discovered their artistic talents through VSAF and continued their creative journey as emerging artists. Today, the festival serves as a gateway to CoSpire Arts, CIDA's workforce development and social enterprise initiative, which helps artists with disabilities explore professional opportunities in the creative economy.

The Art Contest is open to visual artists above 5 years old, from beginners to experienced artists. The Very Special Art Festival is held annually each fall and welcomes artists, families, schools, and community members from across New York.