FAIRHOPE, Ala. — A class of hearing and visually impaired students from the Regional School for the Deaf and Blind attended an art demonstration by internationally renowned artist TAFA at the Eastern Shore Art Center on Jan. 22.

TAFA’s paintings have been exhibited and collected in Europe, Japan, Canada, South America, Africa and the United States.

He obtained a bachelor of fines arts degree from the College of Art, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Ghana and currently resides in Harlem, New York.

TAFA was in this area to receive the Olympic Sports Artist of the Year at the United States Sports Academy on Jan. 21.

TAFA demonstrated to 14 entranced students his art technique with a live demonstration. It was the first time many of them experienced an artist paint with a palette knife and oils.

The painting evolved into a basketball player throwing a ball. When asked what the kids would title the painting shouts of “Slam Dunk,” “Layout” and “Free Throw” rang out throughout the classroom.

Bart Autmon, a Regional School student said, “He (TAFA) is a good artist. I loved watching him. I love to paint and want to be an artist someday.”

The entire classroom was captivated with the demonstration, and couldn’t have been more moved or responsive.

TAFA said, “My paintings are my drum song, my dance of the soul.”

Amy Hess, Regional School mobility instructor said, “All the kids were thrilled. Art is an avenue for these children to express their feelings. It is very rewarding to witness their excitement.”

As an expression of their appreciation, the students presented TAFA an album of their artwork. Each page had a student’s drawing with a sports figure on the reverse side. TAFA was touched and very thankful for their kindness and said he would treasure their generous gift.

After the demonstration, students and instructors tried their own hands at painting in the “TAFA style.”

Many didn’t want to stop their creativity even to eat lunch. Needless to say, no one left without finishing his or her creation.

It was a great day. The atmosphere at the Art Center was contagious. Nancy Raia, ESAC community outreach director, commented, “This the reason I love teaching these children … for moments just like this … aren’t they wonderful?”

The Eastern Shore Art Center is open Tuesday through Friday, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., and Saturday, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Admission is free.

For more information, call (251) 928-2228.