Fashion and art event showcases differing abilities

Johns Crazy Socks, Special Olympics New York and Family Residences & Essential Enterprise (FREE) hosted a fashion and art show earlier this month at Walt Whitman Shops.

The event called “Another Face of Beauty” featured more than 30 models, artists and musicians and was aimed to highlight the talents of people with differing abilities.  

“We want to show that beauty comes in many forms. In furthering our mission of showing what people with differing abilities can do, we are organizing this fashion show so people can see beauty and art in a whole new light,” Mark Cronin, co-founder of John’s Crazy Socks, said in a written statement.

The models, artists and musicians represented six local organizations that co-sponsored this event, including John’s Crazy Socks, Special Olympics New York, FREE, The Viscardi Center, Spirit of Huntington Art Center and the Music Academy for Special Learners. The fashion show featured sock designs courtesy of John’s Crazy Socks. 

“People with differing abilities can make a change in the world. Having Down Syndrome has never held me back,” said John Cronin. “I want to show other people with differing abilities how to showcase their creativity and spread happiness to the world.”

All proceeds from the event will be donated to Special Olympics and FREE.