“Friends of Children with Special Needs” (FCSN) held the 4th art exhibition “Without Limits” on August 22 (last Friday) at its headquarters in Fremont. The exhibition showcased over 200 pieces of artwork from more than 50 special needs child artists, attracting over 200 guests including government officials, community supporters, parents, and friends, all coming together to witness the unlimited potential of these special children.
The venue featured multiple galleries displaying a variety of art forms including paintings, ceramics, digital media, and mixed media, all created by FCSN students themselves, with many preparing for this exhibition for nearly a year. The artworks exhibited diverse styles, vibrant colors, and were full of fantastical innocence. Live music performances added a touching atmosphere to the art exhibition.
The art exhibition commenced with the theme of “Under the Sea”, hosted by Vice President Anna Wang. Five outstanding artists took the stage to share their creative stories. Kristin O’Rourke expressed that art is the showcase of her heart and emotions, integrating joy, thoughts, and vivid colors into her works, hoping the audience could also feel the same delight.
Jinko Cruz, who immigrated from the Philippines to the US in 2003, continued creating artworks depicting scenes from his homeland, such as street vendors, celebrations, and jeeps. He mentioned that his works have been exhibited in the Philippines and the US. Raymond Hu, who has Down syndrome, excels in Chinese painting, with his works showcased in Germany, Canada, and the US. He shared that painting brings him happiness and opens doors to the world for him.
Ken Lin shared that creating art is his way of expressing inner feelings. This year, he felt particularly proud to not only be a singer but also to meet everyone as an artist. Austin Chen, on the other hand, excels in ceramics.
His father mentioned that Austin has always loved playing with clay since he was young, and at the age of 12, he met a great ceramics teacher at FCSN who contributed to his achievements today. His mother encouraged other parents by saying, “Do not lose heart; just persevere, and your child will definitely succeed.”
FCSN Executive Director Sylvia Yeh stated that this year’s theme, “Without Limits,” symbolizes that as long as children are given opportunities, they can continuously learn and grow, demonstrating their unlimited potential.
She emphasized that the art exhibition not only shows the community what children “can do,” but also hopes to create more job opportunities for them, enabling them to give back to society.
FCSN Board Chair Yi-yin Wang expressed that although children have limited language, they can express emotions through art, allowing the community to see their strength.
FCSN Co-Chair and Co-Founder Joe Li said, “We have built a brand new center, hoping to provide children with the best environment and opportunities to showcase their potential.”
Several elected officials and community leaders attended the event, including representatives of Senator Aisha Wahab, Representative Tim Lee, Fremont Mayor Raj Salwan, Councilmembers Shao Yang and Kathy Kimberlin (representing Alameda County Supervisor David Hauber), and Cupertino Mayor Liangfang Zhao.
They delivered speeches, expressing gratitude for FCSN’s contributions to the community and presented certificates of appreciation. Councilmember Shao Yang particularly expressed being deeply moved by the children’s artwork and called for more societal care and support.
In addition to the opening day, the exhibition was open on August 23 (last Saturday) from 1 pm to 5 pm, as well as from August 25 to 29 (Monday to Friday) from 10 am to 5 pm. The exhibition was free of charge, welcoming the public to visit.
In May of this year, California Senator Dr. Aisha Wahab nominated FCSN as the “2025 California Nonprofit Organization of the Year,” recognizing its outstanding contributions to the community.
Founded by 10 Chinese families in 1996, FCSN has now expanded to three centers serving over 1,200 members with special needs, providing services to over 500 adults and children annually, covering different ethnic groups.
Services include adult education, caregiving, talent classes, and mutual support for families. For more information, visit their official website at www.fcsn1996.org. ◇