East End Foundation - Kelly B. Darr

Coping with a childhood eye accident, Kelly B. Darr began drawing in the dark as a therapeutic way to deal with her injury and her isolation. Her determination and perseverance in art continued despite her vision challenges. In junior high, she won an art scholarship to the prestigious Norwich Free Academy's (NFA) weekend art program, and from there a scholarship to the Academy's high school. She exhibited her work in the school's Slater Museum of Art, and ultimately received a college scholarship to the Cleveland Institute of Art.
Following graduation, Kelly was naturally drawn toward working with children, using art in therapeutic ways. She found herself in New York City working for many years at Catholic and NYC public schools as a children's art teacher. Then after school and on weekends, she worked with the Education Arts Team, a group of Jersey City artists who offered art and drama workshops for kids in inner city-sponsored youth centers and summer camps.
In 2011, she started taking part in shows as a member of the Montauk Artists Association, despite the fact that her vision, eye, head, and neck pain persisted.  This year, her doctor recommended surgery to repair the eye once and for all.
Unfortunately, there were complications with the surgery, and now Kelly is on forced bed rest for six months while remaining hopeful that her eye will heal. Medical expenses and prescriptions not covered by her health insurance have set her back financially.
A life of giving back to others less fortunate, Kelly is now the one who needs our help. Any amount is appreciated.