Kayla’s apartment in Boone County Family Resources Supported Living is filled with color, texture and creativity, each piece reflecting her unique style and the ideas that come to her throughout the day. She enjoys working with a variety of mediums including paint, clay, pencil and mixed materials, often incorporating everyday items like cardboard, ribbon or small found objects into her work. For Kayla, inspiration can come from anywhere at any time.
“I’ll find little things in everyday life and use them,” Kayla said. “You don’t have to buy a bunch of expensive supplies. It all adds up.”
With support from Boone County Family Resources (BCFR) SL staff, Kayla continues to explore new creative opportunities in the community. She enjoys visiting places like Pottery Island and The Mud Room, where she can experiment with different materials and techniques and stay connected to other artists. Staff also work closely with Kayla to look through Access Arts program options, helping her choose classes that best fit her interests and schedule so she can continue building her skills in ways that feel right for her.
“I just do whatever comes to mind,” she said. “That’s the fun part.”
Kayla often gives her artwork away as gifts, which is why her collection at home is always changing. She shared pieces from her digital portfolio that she has created for BCFR staff, her roommate and friends, each one reflecting a personal connection.
BCFR Direct Support Specialist Camryn Eubanks has known Kayla for almost a year.
“She’s always working on art,” Camryn said. “A lot of her stuff is very original. It’s just Kayla. When you see it, you know that it’s hers. She adds a lot of jewels, pieces and little fun stuff.”
Her work was recently featured in BCFR’s 50th anniversary art show, marking her first collaborative exhibit. Attending the event and seeing her artwork displayed alongside others made the experience especially meaningful and gave her the opportunity to connect with other artists.
“I thought it was fun because I didn’t know what to expect,” Kayla said. “Just seeing it and trying to find my piece in the whole collage was great.”
Site Supervisor Shelton Boatman attended the event and was able to see Kayla and others supported by BCFR.
“I think that was one of my favorite parts, just getting to look around for Kayla’s art pieces,” Shelton said. “Seeing how her creativity and expression fit in with everybody else’s art. Now that I’ve seen the piece, anytime that I look at it, I’m like, oh, there’s Kayla’s!”
Kayla is grateful for the support of her SL staff, which provides opportunities, resources and connections that help her explore her creativity and share it with others.