As he says, it is obvious early on that he is black and disabled. When he meets with youth, he breaks ice by using a common language - music. Students are surprised to learn of his broad interests and they soon open up. And once they accept Keith for his talents, they see a whole new side of the man, one that Keith wishes all people would recognize in others with disabilities. When VSA brings art programs to Boston Public Schools, they are accepted with open arms.
Art is a equalizer and can bring out otherwise hidden talents in many special needs youth.
Of course art is also a vocation. While there is beauty on the canvas or sweet sounds to hear, for many people this is a career. Parents can encourage art or suppress it in their children. Jones feels it is important to encourage art at all levels of growth. The Boston ARTreach Initiative helps disabled people get access to the arts by acquiring free or discounted admission tickets.