By Conner Toffan

Art exhibit held for first time since passing of artist with Cerebral Palsy

Mar 3, 2019 | 4:54 PM

Medicine Hat, AB — An art display is up right now at the Medicine Hat Library. The artist that created it, though, was not any regular artist.

Rylan Stein created the pieces that currently hang in the libraries basement. Rylan had Cerebral Palsy and art was his outlet to express himself.

Unfortunately, Rylan passed away on June 22, 2018. This is the second time Rylan has had an art exhibit.

Since this is the first one since he’s passed away, it has taken on a whole new meaning for his family.

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“This one seemed to have a little more meaning maybe because of his passing. So it’s a memorial,” said Keith Stein, Rylan’s dad.

Keith says the exhibit of Rylan’s art is a touching memorial.

“You kind of feel him with us when you see his art,” said Keith.

Creating art was not only one of Rylan’s favourite hobbies, but it was also one of his best ways to express himself.

“When we look at the piece’s, we see both the struggle with some of the muscle movements and we also see his ability to express himself fully. We see the choices he made and the story behind it,” said Heidi Willmer, an Art Therapist that helped Rylan create the art on display.

While Rylan has passed, his creations live on to tell the story of his life.

“I think it gives them a clear message that whatever it is you’re going through, there’s a way to express yourself and be fully seen and heard. And that you’re not alone with what you’re going through,” said Willmer.

Last Friday, when the art was unveiled, was Rylan’s 23rd birthday.

“So many people came out so we felt really supported in honour to remember him,” said Karen Stein, Rylan’s mom.

Rylan was connected to many in the community according to Karen, who saw over 50 people who went to see Rylans art last week when the exhibit opened up.

“He was very social, he was just always so happy and liked to interact with people,” said Karen

Karen says Rylan had a very loving nature as he always carried a bright smile and a twinkle in his eye.

“Even though he couldn’t speak with words, he could use his body language,” said Karen.

Since Rylans quadriplegia limited his movement heavily, Karen is still amazed at how he could make his art.

“I don’t have a creative bone in my body so I’m amazed at what he did.”

Karen says many have requested prints of Rylan’s art.

Among the Stein family, none could pinpoint their favourite creation as every piece of art has unique stories and meanings.

Rylan’s brother, Jayden says that seeing that his older brother created so much through his disability inspires him.

“Do what makes you happy and find your passion,” said Jayden, “always be as happy as you can be and always live life to the fullest.”