I believe art is the way to the soul and that it is an amazing outlet for those who can’t always find the words. I experienced a spinal cord injury as a result of a spinal mass and multiple surgeries. I am currently a patient at Streeterville DayRehab, learning to manage getting around in the world with a higher thoracic spinal cord injury, as well as trying to get back to my very active competitive sport lifestyle. Art therapy gave me an outlet to express myself and escape from the stressful reality that had become my life. It gave me something to do and distracted me from my pain. It allowed me that piece of normalcy as I make art, tumblers and shirts at home. It allowed me to feel like I still had this one thing in my life that was consistent. I love experimenting with all types of art products and creating a variety of different pieces. Most of my artwork is motivational, inspirational and fun. A lot of my pieces contain nature.
Larry Garcia graduated from Northwestern University in 1976. In 2011, he was in an accident that resulted in a C5 incomplete spinal cord injury. He discovered painting with watercolors during the Art Therapy Program at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. He enjoys experimenting with new techniques and media, and is currently using acrylics — for bolder color and effects — to express what he wants to convey in his work. Larry finds painting a form of expression that he would not otherwise have explored were it not for his inpatient art therapy.
#100 11”x14”
warm inspiration 12”x9”
Squares 14”x11”
the best view 36”x24”
Self Portrait 14”x11”
kaliyah (strong warrior) 10”x10”
Red Woman 14”x11”
inspiration planted
Oasis 5.5”x8.5”
#600b 36”x24”
feather of hope 10”x10”
a warrior’s best friend 24”x36”
#800 36”x24”
coffee buzz
Blue Woman 14”x11”
#154 11”x14”
broken isn’t always broken
600A 36”x24”
always rising 15.5”x11.5”
always looking up 10”x10”
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