From now until the end of the month, the Arts Council will exhibit more than 45 pieces of artwork by disabled artists from across Georgia.

The free event is part of a statewide tour of pieces from the Georgia Artists with Disabilities. It is the sixth time the tour has stopped in Gainesville, which usually makes its rounds to The Arts Council every other year.

Nairika Cornett, director of marketing and arts in schools coordinator at The Arts Council, said they like to bring in works that speak to the vibrant, diverse community they serve. This exhibition is no different, she said.

“In particular, this exhibit brings to light the regenerative and healing powers of the arts,” Cornett said via email. “Most of these artists have severely debilitating handicaps and yet, with the help of the arts and their perseverance to overcome physical and mental limitations, results in creative outcomes we are blessed to witness.”

Before the exhibition opens, it requires a year of planning, judging and celebrating by the Georgia Artists with Disabilities. The organization’s board chairwoman Ann Brooks said the work must be collected for judging in September. The work can be from those with physical or mental disabilities, though the organization does not ask artists to describe their disabilities. The results are announced the same month during a luncheon with prizes.

A few weeks later, the tour begins with 45 pieces transported from north to south Georgia. Along the way, the artists could potentially make a profit from their work.

“This is an opportunity for people to view the art, but this is also an opportunity for the artists to sell their artwork,” Brooks said. “That money is given to the artist directly. We do not keep any money.”

Though the process of making this tour happen is a long journey, Brooks said it’s worthwhile.

“It’s something we can do to help these disabled artists throughout Georgia,” she said.

To view the works ranging from watercolors to photography to jewelry, residents may visit second floor of The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center. Hours at 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at 331 Spring St. SW in Gainesville.

“We want to encourage the public to come to The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center and view these inspirational works,” Cornett said. “The exhibit is free and family friendly.”

Large groups and guided tours are welcome, and the gallery is handicapped-accessible.

For more information, visit theartscouncil.net or call 770-534-2787.