A Disabled Artist who Communicates by Painting

Clara survived a stroke in utero. She is now 17 years old and diagnosed with 12 different disabilities. This makes it difficult for her to connect with others, but Clara has learned to communicate through her artwork. She loves to create paintings to express her feelings, thoughts, and emotions. Clara just wishes she had friends her age to paint with.
Check out Clara's art at www.clarawoodscollection.com/
Support SBSK at / sbsk

[@SpecialBooksbySpecialKids]

You can check out Clara's artwork at www.clarawoodscollection.com/

[@1NOIAM]

I loved this so much. I didn't want it to end.

[@danielle5873]

Hi Chris wish we can meet you and greet you guys love your videos ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ ❤

[@albertorkenbjorken]

i love her work!! she is amazing!

[@dru1432]

Pinkster rocks! 💕

[@huiostheoukaisoteros]

Had to buy something, luckily there was some small affordable art as well!

[@jenaparsons]

Clara is trilingual and communicates with an AAC device, gestures, mouthing words, verbal responses, and through the universal language of art. Wow, so much talent. So impressive Clara.

[@lisalarouge6309]

I really think she will find a boyfriend.

[@clarawoods]

❤️

[@reettaelina]

​@@clarawoods❤

[@Dougwig]

She can also understand and write English and probably Italian

[@alexadec23334]

is the talent in the room with us

[@Izzy-cp8yt]

I love how respectful Chris always is with his interviews. Nonspeaking does not mean an inability to understand, think, and communicate. Clara seems like a very sweet girl, and her artwork is so beautiful and powerful. I'm so glad she was given this platform where she could be heard and seen as she is, rather than as people's misconceptions see her. I hope she's able to find good people who love her as she is.

[@skywalktriceiam]

💜

[@WalkingPaceWP]

Does anyone know why she can't speak but knows 3 languages. Is it just brain damage to the point it doesn't allow you to for words?

[@kettynguyen6008]

She sure has a special talent and what a loving family..especially her brother! Wishing her all the best and hope that all her dreams comes through!

[@1234millerz]

​@@WalkingPaceWPThe two big parts of the brain that are crucial for language are: 1. the Wernicke's Area above and behind the ear that is essential for speech comprehension 2. the Broca's area at the temple used for motor function in making speech Since she has cerebral palsy, I believe the stoke occurred in the motor cortex, nearby Broca's area. Also, brains are complicated but also pretty flexible, especially when very young.

[@DippyHippie]

Chris IS special isn’t he? I’m a retired nurse,hospice,& I sure do recognize someone special like Chris! Kindness is so important & he has it in abundance!

[@judgemally5034]

Her brother had me in tears. What a sweet kind loving young man. With realistic goals.

[@clarawoods]

❤️

[@gracequalls9770]

Had me crying. What a sweetheart! He's not just protective he's kind and understanding. The way they laugh together is so pure.

[@clarawoods]

@@gracequalls9770 ❤️

[@ProDMiner]

same , started cryin when he said he wanted her to live with him.

[@erin5109]

Oh my god her brother took my breath away, he is so sweet and 100% confident he wants her to live with him. You can tell he has thought this out carefully, it’s heartwarming.

[@Rose-xo2xc]

honestly, it hurst me to hear that she doesn't have any friends. She seems really nice and she is constantly laughing and making me smile. Personally I would love to be her friend and paint with her.

[@clarawoods]

❤️

[@trishdagle8276]

Me too! As an artist myself, I am so blown away by her ability to communicate through paint. Well done you!

[@clarawoods]

@@trishdagle8276 ❤️

[@SylviaColdHeart]

Same here! I would love to have an art buddy, as I am doing a 30 day painting challenge my self. It would be really nice to have someone to paint with and she seems so cool and sweet. I would be here friend any day. I hope she finds people who would like to do the same too♥️

[@TissueCat_]

was just thinking this. it sucks that its so common for ppl to not want to be friends with someone just because of disabilities. like ofc theres a learning curve if the person doesn't communicate in the standard way, but that doesn't mean it wouldn't be a meaningful connection, and it would 100% be worth the extra time and effort to learn to communicate with them. also ik theres plenty of disabled folks that aren't any more "difficult" to be friends with/communicate with than others, and often times its just ppl not liking ppl who are different than them, unfortunately.

[@isaacheres1354]

Even if shes non-verbal, her face expressions of her feelings towards what her brother is saying, she understands and she is communicating with her emotions

[@AnemicRoyaltyRX]

I saw that too, very much. ALOT can be said about facial expressions and body language. ❤

[@rebeccamari]

I agree! She is actually very expressive, maybe even more than some teens who can speak.

[@rymacreeks2k07]

well yeah why wouldn't she understand emotions? her disabilities are physical only, her mind is a fully functioning average artsy teen

[@em-agan]

I love how her family communicates with her and makes sure she is understood without talking over her. Such a wonderful family, and such beautiful art

[@clarawoods]

❤️

[@abbyb6958]

I feel for Clara. I’m also young and disabled and making friends can be super challenging. We’re also infantilized which is frustrating. She’s a kind and bright soul I know she’ll go far

[@moorgrass22]

❤❤❤

[@theinvertebratequeen]

She is obviously a VERY intelligent individual, it seems a shame that some might look over that simply because she has disabilities. Like her mum said, when you have a disability, people act like you don't exist which is painfully true in my own experience. Many people without disabilities who are completely verbal have a hard time conveying their emotions and how they're feeling yet it feels like Clara has found one heck of a means of expressing herself via art. I hope her art can be recognised worldwide because it's art that truly means something.

[@clarawoods]

❤️

[@Dice67]

That’s what I thought she’s amazing. She’s just different but seems perfectly capable.

[@clarawoods]

@@Dice67 ❤️

[@isaacheres1354]

Her artwork should be put in a museum of arts

[@balaam_7087]

It’s kind of a joke that art as interesting as hers is not on display somewhere, yet a painting of a red square is. That’s backwards

[@girlygirlhippy]

Gorgeous work young lady✌️🤍🌸

[@scrunky8683]

I agree with that statement she is very sweet

[@m3scann]

The picture behind you is radiating love with the heart as a core.I love the use of all the colors. Amazing and beautiful. Love conquers all things. You art is fantastic!

[@cactuscallie5090]

Totally. This is NOT your average "make the child feel special by complimenting her drawings when in fact they are just terrible." That is 110% genuinely amazing and talented.

[@Mr_Nobody913]

“I was born ready”. Yes, yes you were little brother. Keep being a shining example and Clara’s art is better than some main stream artists. She’s gonna be painting masterpieces for a long time.

[@lh3540]

I totally support her brother's idea of moving to Denver. They have a really amazing mural and arts scene. She actually would find a lot of painter friends.

[@minilimse4204]

I am hoping someone her age in her area sees this and takes the chance to meet this cheering bright soul.

[@JC-sm4mp]

Right? She's so lovely.

[@niamhobrien8779]

I’m her age and I’d do anything to have a friend like her.

[@breakthespell22]

@@niamhobrien8779God so would I! too bad i’m australian though

[@DoubleDivergent-zz9cc]

Amen!

[@AntepenultimaRomantica]

@@niamhobrien8779 me too :( she seems so genuine, I really like that

[@girlygirlhippy]

Oh my goodness her younger brother and her have such a loving, caring and selfless sibling relationship 💗

[@barbaralamoreaux328]

It’s wonderful to see that Clara’s mind was unaffected by the stroke, even though she was left with disabilities . She’s obviously super bright and loving. Love her artwork!

[@AnemicRoyaltyRX]

Right I thought the same thing! She's very thoughtful and well spoken, even if not verbally you can tell there's a lot of depth to her, ALOT of love and compassion in her heart and she's very genuine. Loved this interview! ❤

[@AnemicRoyaltyRX]

She's got so much potential to make a positive difference in the world.

[@UFOhunter4711]

Yeah you can tell by the way she thinks before answering, hand movements when struggling to get a word across. Honestly she just reminds me of being able understand a language but not speak it fluently

[@muffinsangria1]

What an amazing family. Clara doesn’t speak yet she communicates better than many verbal adults.

[@sarahalbers5555]

Absolutely.

[@clarawoods]

❤️

[@suziseha369]

How beautiful that her brother wants her to live with him and that he hopes she waits for him to grow up before she lives on her own. Aw. Her art is wonderful and the message she gives is so pure.

[@s.m.7635]

I love he he said he hoped she would wait for him🥺

[@nope5657]

Her art is legit gorgeous. The heart canvas in the background kicks butt.

[@Deedoonews]

What a beautiful family. I had a CP brother who was deaf and suffered from distonia as well. Three years ago he passed away at 72. He was my hero because of his courage and loving nature like Clara and brought joy to everyone he ever met. Blessings to all of you.

[@shannanigansisme]

I'm sorry for your loss, but happy about your memories.

[@clarawoods]

❤️

[@dogvoter9973]

I love how Clara's family know when to speak for her and when she can speak for herself. Seeing her happiness when they know exactly whats shes trying to express is truly amazing. Their connection and strength as a family is so incredible ❤️

[@gerbil_is_typing]

Clara seems absolutely lovely and clearly has a dedicated and caring family. Also, THREE languages??? And wonderful art??? A total gem.

[@clarawoods]

❤️

[@mbe102]

I almost failed kindergarten because I couldn't learn french, so she's a genius as far as I'm concerned. A sweet kid with such a lovely family.

[@PropheticPrincessRo]

Her little brother made me want to cry. He is so protective. 😭😭😭 When she said that she would go to the mall, I was like, "Oh yes. She is a normal girl!" 🎀👗

[@thesprawl2361]

That broke me up, seeing him talk about her.

[@swagvsemo]

@@thesprawl2361off topic but i love ur pfp

[@AnemicRoyaltyRX]

Right? yes!! As well as wanting a boyfriend. She reminds me of me at that age. ❤

[@thesprawl2361]

@@swagvsemo Thanks; I love it when people notice

[@Angel.on.Wheelz]

As a disabled artist myself, I greatly appreciate Clara’s artistic impression of communication. Art is so healing, so empowering, and so vital to many of us whether we can communicate through verbal words or not. So much of our inspiration is emotion and the ability to communicate that through our creativity! Well done Clara! You should have no problem finding friends amongst a creative and artistic group! Such a beautiful, loving family and a truly special soul in Clara! Wishing you all the very best in life! “It’s your life…paint it in colours that make you happy!” 🎨🖌️💖

[@lisaellis2593]

Exactly! well said, Go! Clara!

[@Marlene5018]

Having a disability doesn’t mean that you’re not intelligent, I Can see how bright and sweet Clara is! 😮

[@RayhanaJones]

"If you did have friends that were your age, what would you do with them?" PAINT! Bless her heart. Such an expressive young lady.

[@asympti2185]

I think she will have friends like that, other artists who understand her as fluently through her art as her family does through love and experience. She's a brilliant young woman, and I can just see her thriving in an artists' community, which would be lucky to have her.

[@christinasanders5625]

I wish I could paint with her!

[@sarandianna1]

It amazes me how supportive and respecftul the parents are. Everyone in this family is perfect for one another.

[@ZaWarudo69]

I teared up when she expressed ‘love you’ and proceeded to kiss her dad.

[@TootlesTart]

Clara’s dad doesn’t help her paint. He helps prepare materials. And you can tell Clara is totally bright. I love her word board that helps say on the outside what she thinks on the inside.

[@cartoonsandmusiclover1989]

I'm rooting for davi! I hope he achieves his dream of becoming a pilot in Colorado so he and Clara can live together and eat ice cream. They're such sweet siblings! I wish I had a brother like Davi. I also hope Clara will find a boyfriend and some friends who won't treat her like a child. I know how that feels all too well lol. 😅

[@lisalynnmarie2448]

I would have watched an entire hour SBSK about Clara and her family....what lovely people and growing up learning several different languages, and growing up in Italy. How amazing! I'm sure she'll have some friends soon to paint with and gossip about boys lol She deserves everything in the world she dreams for ❤

[@aidjota]

the painting behind her is literally displaying how much love radiates from her 💞💞💞💞

[@sarahalbers5555]

It is so gorgeous. I would love to see it in person. She is so talented. She is an angel and so is her little brother. Lovely family.

[@ihatehandles111]

This family is AMAZING.... I love how they don't coddle the children. Dad just openly talked about people smoking weed. Brother openly talked about her first kiss. They are amazing kids and amazing parents wow wow wow. I am also multicultural lol it's the best!!

[@dijahsyoutubechannel]

"people think that because you have a disability, you don't exist anymore." such an amazing quote

[@Short_Rachel.]

Interesting quote 🤔

[@NorthToSouthChannel]

I am absolutely blown away and overwhelmed by Clara's beautiful artwork and desire to communicate love to everyone. Thank you for this interview.

[@lizzysmira]

I love your intentional communication strategies with Clara. Instead of having her rely on her technology, you have an actual conversation with her. You inspire me to be a better teacher.

[@apparentlyasun]

The moment where Chris asked her why she was patient with her brother while he was fishing even though she doesn't like it and she said she did it because she loves him is so sweet. They clearly are incredibly close and have a great sibling relationship

[@MegadoseTheOutsiderArtist]

Hi Clara! I love your art. I'm also an artist and when they asked you what you were trying to communicate with your art, I knew you were going to say "love" because as soon as I saw your art, I felt that! I felt your love through your painting.... Immediately.

[@dori2513]

i follow them on instagram and i think its so interesting to see her understand everything they say. since she cant comunucate back with words her family tries to help her express what she wants to say in diff ways. its so beautiful. her art is amazing.

[@debswall]

What is their account name?

[@clarawoods]

@@debswall@woods_clara_ ❤

[@CrisOnTheInternet]

Her parents being able to say what she wants shows the deep connection with them 💜. Also it's beautiful to see how her brother wants to take care of her.

[@clarawoods]

@@CrisOnTheInternet ❤️

[@louisasmiles]

These parents are amazing . Raising two highly intelligent and loving people. They are a tight duo. Well done parents. You nailed it.

[@felicityhutton9358]

Clara and her brother are so special. I love Davil's support and understanding of his sister.

[@LeedleLee457]

7:30 Aww that's seriously one of the most adorable sibling interactions I've seen!

[@isaacheres1354]

I love what Chris is doing holding up his fingers to give Clara her way to answer a yes or no questions

[@aysiachamp]

Clara and her brother’s relationship is the most precious thing I’ve ever seen. What a lovely family. 🥰

[@ashleycook300]

That sibling bond is so pure! You can really tell she loves just being near her brother! It's a shame she doesn't have more friends in her life! She's an amazing artist and would make a wonderful painting buddy! I would LOVE to paint with her! 💖I love that her hoodie is literally caked with her paint. That's the sign of a true artist!

[@beckwil0852]

This kid is REMARKABLE!!!! I love her and her wonderful family, especially that cute brother!

[@abbieherondale]

Her brother is such a sweetheart

[@romulus_]

he's an incredible guy, especially to have that maturity and emotional intelligence at his age. it comes from somewhere -- what a family.

[@FreuleinKeks]

She seems really nice, and I wish for her that she can make lots of friends her age soon. She really deserves some "normal" teenager experiences. This whole family seems really wholesome and cute.

[@MadDJean]

crying tears of joy because I am so happy that Clara is encouraged, supported, and CELEBRATED!!! Clara, you are so talented!!

[@clarawoods]

❤️

[@KyleMorpheus]

her expression through art is lovely. I cant take my eyes off the explosion of color in the heart behind them.

[@biNoelle]

Even though it's hard for her to communicate, she understands! Even though I'm verbal. I'm the same way.... It's very hard for me to talk. But I understand exactly what people are saying. Just finding the words and putting them together out loud is difficult for me. I prefer to talk through text. Even when I'm in front of people. But I'm only comfortable texting in person with people if they know how I am. and wont judge me for that.

[@kristenhart4984]

I love how her parents made her an art studio. This is amazing. 🎨🖼🖌

[@robertawiese]

Loving parents aren’t a guarantee in life… this whole family is so beautiful👍🥹

[@mint_marigold1229]

You're amazing Clara! I love your paintings, they're so pretty and they really have this joyful feeling to them that conveys all the love inside your heart. ♡ Edit: I'm a few years older than you and I haven't had my first kiss either. It's okay, please don't stress about it too much!

[@clarawoods]

❤

[@eileenthombs2075]

When Clara's brother was saying he wants her to live with him when they're older, she looked SO happy. The love between them is amazing. The love in this whole family is truly amazing. Clara, you are such a talented artist!!!! I'd buy your paintings to hang in my home, that's how beautiful they are.

[@iwantmy_sk844]

That end was enormously touching! ..."Love him!" (I'm taking the liberty to insert the exclamation mark there) If we all could be so giving/so selfless about love!

[@ronadoyle3158]

What a beautiful woman. So smart and savvy. I'm excited to see what her future holds for her.

[@moLeOnPoT]

She is beautiful inside and outside, and her Art is stunning

[@lesleyannxx9823]

Clara we love your art! 🎨 My daughter is also 17yrs and has Cerebral palsy. Lexis also expresses herself through painting and sketching... We both watched this and could relate in so many ways. We wish you the very best sweet from Australia...keep up your beautiful artwork ❤️

[@violetsareblue888]

i teared up every time she gave her brother a kiss, and when he said he doesn’t know why she fished with him even if she didn’t enjoy it 😭❤️ sweethearts

[@RealityTrailers]

What an artistic child. Thanks for sharing.

[@marktheshark1974]

With all respect, she is 17. I wouldn't really say "child"

[@littleleah310]

❤

[@itsathingy1321]

​@@marktheshark1974I'm 28, still a child and won't ever lose it til the day I die ❤

[@cutefeverdreams]

​@@marktheshark1974I'm 17 and I firmly believe that teens are still children, there's a reason why were called minors

[@RealityTrailers]

@@marktheshark1974 Age has nothing to do with it. Those who are a child at heart, no matter what age they are, tend to be much more creative and inspiring than those who no longer let their inner child play with them.

[@karasuthedreamer6353]

I’m a disabled artist myself (I’m more into drawing/illustration than painting, though). Art has been so beneficial to me in coping with my anxiety. Clara’s paintings are absolutely beautiful. It’s always exciting to hear about other disabled artists.

[@emmira]

I KNEW IT. I’m Brazilian too and when her mom started talking I could recognize the accent. Desejo tudo de bom pra família de vcs e pra Clara ela é muito talentosa e muito gata inclusive

[@user-ru3zw6lz9h]

Really appreciate how her father was so gentle about not wanting to speak OVER her but explaining the painting for her to make things a bit easier. Far too often I've seen parents of disabled children just completely speak over their child even when the child seems distressed that they're not being understood.

[@theneverman]

What an awesome little brother.

[@theneverman]

and dad. and mom. and Clara. beautiful family.

[@is5827]

Uma brasileira !!! Isso é simplesmente incrível, as artes dela são a coisa mais linda do mundo. Família linda e muito doce, Clara não podia ter família melhor.

[@M-I-K-A-N]

As a young kid and has a big passion for art and drawing, I love seeing other artists and how different they are. I am aspired by this girl, I hope she gets more attention and has her art in a museum. She seems like a really nice girl, I wish I would at least meet her and be her best friend and give her the biggest hug I can!

[@daniellelightfoot8394]

Art and music are both universal languages ❤

[@JolinReintjes]

I studied art therapy 3 years and it helped to understand people and there creative expression. Wonderful that she is expressing herself!

[@hannahtobeck]

oh wow! clara seems like just my kind of friend to be around. i love her positive energy and her laugh is so infectious!! i wish i wasn’t so far away so we could be friends. i need another 17yo painting bestie

[@-.._.-_...-_.._-..__..._.-.-.-]

You can tell Clara has a lot to express. She is exploding with love and intricate thoughts. It broke my heart when she couldn't find the right words on the tablet or when she hesitated to answer some of the questions. You could tell there was much more she wanted to say but was restricted to a simple "yes," "no" or "beach for a walk." Where she lacks in words, though, she makes up for in other forms of communication. I hope she knows people are listening intuitively and seeing beyond the surface.

[@clumsybugg]

I so deeply wish I was a part of their family. I wish I had this level of love and support like she does. You can tell how much they all love eachother! they're so kind, and respectful, and seem deeply in tune with their children and it's just heartwarming to see such a positive video. She just radiates joy and light and I can feel it through the screen! I would LOVE to be her friend, to paint together, and show eachother our art. I don't know where she is from, but I bet there are people who feel exactly like me in her area! I hope that people start to make more efforts to treat her like every other 17 year old, because that's what she is. I have no doubt that she will find a wonderful boy, that is as amazing as her family!

[@clarawoods]

Sending love ❤️

[@bravesgrizzlies15]

she has such a sweet heart

[@foolycooly3763]

I predicted her last answer, I love her and her brother’s relationship it’s so pure 😭 wish I could be her friend!

[@finleydownes0701]

I love how understanding and communicative Clara is! When her mom was talking about her hand being one of the first signs after her birth she instantly raised it up to show the example. She is very intelligent and artistic and her art is absolutely beautiful and shows so much talent and emotions.

[@JPjaybird]

Clara! I’ve seen so much of her on social media. Love how they show the good and bad. Strong family. Clara is amazing! Great to see her on here.

[@MalinoisMadness888]

What a sweet family. Her brother wanting her to live with him. What a big heart

[@anntunaley9974]

Clara should have an art show . There must be a gallery near her that would be willing to let her show her work and let the people in her area meet her and get to know her. I think she could sell her work and also get to meet a lot of people. She’s got a lot of talent.

[@ChubbyUnicorn]

I love how deeply her family knows, understands and cares for Clara & she deeply loves them as well. They communicate with each other better than any family I know.

[@JustineReneeChannel]

She’s incredibly talented and beautiful!!!…⭐️⭐️

[@racheallewis2437]

This whole family is precious!!!!

[@bigfriki]

She is lovely! 🥰🥰

[@lhproductions61]

Her brother is the sweetest, they gave great parents who’ve raised some smart kids. They’ll go far in life I hope they succeed in whatever they hope to do

[@xmrgx]

oh man, Clara is AWESOME. i wanna be her friend! you never fail to put a big smile on my face. thanks for the blessed work you do every day, Chris

[@neshama44]

They are both adorable but the brother is to die for so cute ❤️

[@bernard2735]

Two wonderful kids. I hope they’re blessed with happy, wonderful lives.

[@terriehumphries6028]

What a sweet young lady.

[@melissachatwin3975]

This was one of my favs! That girl is amazing and her brother is so sweet! ❤

[@beadelf8158]

A great family, Clara is a gem

[@AdmiralFerret]

What a cool kid! Her happiness is contagious for sure. She deserves everything great, and her family is an amazing start.

[@BestJungkookistaaa]

There are many kinds of intelligence, and i can tell Clara is extremely intelligent. The way she communicates through art, technology and facial expressions, you get to understand her better than with words. Its jaw dropping 👏🏻 lovely family

[@soulofraga2628]

I have been watching your videos for quite many years It always uplifts me and puts a smile on my face to see diverse and beautiful humans with different talents out there while dealing with adversities Thanks for the work that you do 💓💫

[@rozjones4097]

You don’t know how long I have waited for you to interview Clara

[@Mila808g]

The whole family is wonderful BUT THAT LITTLE BOY IS SO SPECIAL!! The plans he has to care for his sister and provide for them when he grows up is heartwarming and just so compassionate. You can tell that the thought of moving out of her parent's home in the future and also having a "normal life" is something that genuinely excites her. I hope the plan pans out for the two of them. Wow.

[@angelNoll10]

I'm an aspiring art therapist and this makes my soul so happy. Art truly is one of the most powerful forms of expression!

[@jenniferleyden6557]

I love this family!! The relationship between Clara and her brother is so sweet! And what talent! Keep painting and making the world a more beautiful place, Clara!

[@abdullahak2204]

I loved this interview!!!! Clara's paintings are amazing! Her laughter is wholesome and she has a great personality! I hope she makes good friends who want to paint with her! Her parents are awesome! Omg Davi is such a cool brother! "I was born ready " lol

[@amyiee_]

i'm a 17 years old teenager too, i also speak portuguese (i'm brazilian lol) i like to paint too, i think Clara would be such a good friend. i hope she the best. she is such a lovely and pretty person! desejo a ela um vida linda, Clara merece o mundo ❤️

[@spookyaliens6286]

The dad seems so sweet and like his kids are really sweet like him

[@isaacheres1354]

Gotta love that Chris puts music in the background when he films Clara painting