Members of YAI ARTS recent "Through the Looking Glass" exhibit at New Century Artists, Inc. in Chelsea, marked their first show in a mainstream gallery.

"It just validates that these artists are professionals," said Seema Moondra, Coordinator of YAI ARTS. "It means that you have that quality in your work that can be showcased in a New York City gallery."

YAI ARTS sold several pieces for nearly $2,000, with 60 percent of the proceeds going back to the artists. Meanwhile a 52-page YAI ARTS booklet, featuring information about the artists and the program which is used for marketing, raised about $13,000 from the sale of advertisements.

YAI ARTS provides artists with disabilities the opportunity to share their visions, develop new skills, exhibit their work and connect with the community. With no government funding, the program is supported through donations, corporate/individual grants and proceeds from the sale of artwork.

"I could see the enthusiasm in the artists," Seema said. "They got a chance to see other works of expression (throughout the gallery) created with different techniques and forms by contemporary artists. It was such an eye opener for them."