Rory started taking art lessons at age 8 as therapy. He feels happy when he paints. His favorite medium is acrylic on canvas. Rory enjoys playing a variety of sports. He has won medals for bicycling in Special Olympics. We are proud of Rory for his excellent artistic creativity. Aimee (A), Rory’s mother, has also answered some of the questions.

How did you learn to paint so beautifully?R: I had art lessons at Ivymount School in Rockville. I started when I was 8 years old.
A:  Rory now takes private art lessons with an artist who lives nearby.

Which is your favorite piece of work?R: I did a painting of Mickey Mouse. It hangs in my bedroom. I love Disney. I painted another Mickey Mouse for my best friend Beau.

What was your first painting that you sold?R: I sold a painting of a woman for $75.00
A:  It was a stylized portrait, not realistic, and adapted from a painting in an art book.

How does art therapy help you?R: I feel happy when I paint.

How was your experience participating in the Special Olympics? What is your favorite sport?R:  I like Special Olympics bicycling. I have won medals. I also like Special Ice Hockey. I like shooting the puck in the goal.
A:  Part of USA Hockey, not Special Olympics, but geared toward children and adults with cognitive disabilities.

What are your other hobbies?R: I like to play video games. I like to read with my Mom and hike with my Dad.

Who is your favorite artist/sportsperson/celebrity?R: My favorite artist is Walt Disney.

What is your favorite place to visit?R: I love the beach.
A: We have often gone to Rehoboth Beach in Delaware. A couple of years ago we went to the Outer Banks in North Carolina.

What do you like to do when you are with your family?R: I like to play board games.
A: We have a weekly family dinner and game night. Rory can play most games that 8 year olds can play.

Any special message for our community?R: Do what makes you happy!