Candy Waters Art Book is for inspiration and a celebration of Ability not Disability.
Artist Candy Waters, whose work appears in this book, is 16 years old, autistic and nonverbal. From the day she was born Candy's parents, singer songwriters Robert and Sandy Waters, played guitar and sang to her. Then at the age of three Candy was diagnosed with autism and Robert and Sandy's view of their job as parents changed. Devastated by this diagnosis they continued to care for Candy surrounding her with music and art.
When an opportunity for six year old Candy to paint arose, they provided the environment, tools, and support that opened Candy to expression and suddenly their nonspeaking child was able to let the world into her silence with painted glimpses into her amazingly colorful world!
"Candy Waters and her art is a great example of the remarkable talent and accomplishments that people with autism can achieve. Through TM techniques children and adults with autism as well their families can be helped to overcome stress and become happier, healthier and more creative." David Lynch, Movie Director and Founder of The David Lynch Foundation
"Candy Waters' art book is yet another example of the talent that lies within the untapped minds of those who live with autism. Candy's art is her unspoken gift to all of us" Actor Joe Mantegna
Even though Candy is nonverbal and unable to communicate through words she is able to express herself through her art and be heard around the World. Candy's art and story has inspired and raised autism awareness but most importantly it has given hope and joy to people around the Globe!!
Candy has many amazing accomplishments to name a few The University of California, Irvine Magazine used her "Mr. Sun" painting for the cover of their Summer 2013 issue that sheds light on UCI's efforts to help those affected by autism. Also, Candy's Sun paintings were featured on CBS Sunday Morning News Show numerous times.
Our family is honored and proud to be Candy's humble helpers.
We use many different painting techniques with Candy (original art, facilitated, collaborative, gentle hand over hand, proxy...etc) We are honored to be her humble helpers and sometimes teachers as any parents would do for their child.
In many cases Candy has been our teacher as well. Also, we do not want or take credit for any help or collaboration that we do with her.
Candy's Art has given our family the opportunity to come together and bond in order to create a real connection. Art has made our family stronger Art Can Heal
Through the years Candy has come a long way with her art and her abilities. Children who have autism are able to achieve great things no matter where they are on the Autism Spectrum.
Our job as parents and caregivers is to help them find what they like and enable/help them to pursue their passion. This is true for all disabilities.
The money raised from the sale of Candy's Art will be saved for Candy's future in her own Special Needs Trust.
Finally, we encourage other parents to try and do new things like art & music with their child who has autism or any disability.
As we always say "Where words fail Music & Art Speak. Music & Art is a must for Autism".
Enjoy our daughter Candy's Art book we are so proud of her.
Faith, Love & Hope,
Robert & Sandy Waters Candy's Mom & Dad
