The Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) Office of Special Education organized an art exhibit titled “The Power of Purpose, Place, and Human Connection: Our Stories Matter” on December 4 at A Place to Be in Leesburg. The exhibition featured nearly 40 pieces created by four adult learners with disabilities who are incarcerated at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center and working toward their diplomas.
Christina Schmitt, Special Education Dean for the Non-Traditional Schools, initiated the project after realizing some students needed an arts credit to graduate. Schmitt, who also serves as instructor, described her role as a “coach of new beginnings” and aimed to help students fulfill graduation requirements through art classes.
Over several weeks, students produced artwork that reflected their experiences and met Virginia Department of Education standards. Because detention center policies prevented them from keeping their work, Schmitt partnered with the Loudoun County Arts Council and A Place to Be—a music therapy provider and LCPS partner—to publicly display the art.
Schmitt expressed her hope that attendees would look beyond criminal records to see the artists’ talent and humanity. She said she wanted the exhibit to help reduce stigma around incarceration.
At the event’s opening presentation, Schmitt spoke about how art can support individuals with disabilities: “For individuals with disabilities, art enhances memory, attention, sequencing, and fine motor skills. It also helps develop executive functioning by requiring students to plan, think critically, make decisions, manage their time, and problem-solve.”
She emphasized that the purpose was not about producing superior art but about honoring each student’s story. Art provides an opportunity for self-expression and healing for learners who often have complex trauma histories.
Reflecting on her work with these students during the exhibit, Schmitt said: “It is a true pleasure to work with each of these individuals. I find purpose in helping students discover their own potential, guiding them toward growth, competence and hope. Tonight’s exhibit is not just an art show. It is proof that their experiences matter, that they are valued and seen. It is an act of liberation, healing and a testament to the positive impact education can have on a learner’s life.”
Around 50 people attended the event where they could interact with the artwork and write notes for the artists. Each piece was displayed with an artist statement describing its inspiration and personal background.
A notable piece depicted a dog using pointillism; other works demonstrated creative use of mixed media despite limited materials due to detention center rules.
Schmitt thanked Theresa Clancy and Brian Kirk from Loudoun Arts Council; Kim Tapper from A Place to Be; Dr. Paige Carter; and Nykea Purnell for supporting the event.
Although unable to attend in person, the student-artists’ presence was felt through their work—highlighting themes of resilience and identity while underscoring that every learner’s story has value.
