Justin Captures the Natural World Through Art

With the precision of a scientist and the heart of an artist, Justin Howard has a passion for expressing himself through detailed drawings and paintings. Since the age of two, Justin has filled notebooks with colorful pictures that reflect his love of nature.

Justin has a particular love for capturing images of trees. His notebooks contain a forest’s worth of material, featuring hundreds of trees drawn and labelled with their scientific names. He illustrates their stages of growth and includes close-ups of their seeds and leaves.

In recent years, Justin has taken his talents to the next level. He is now working with paint-by-number canvases, which he completes to perfection.

“I was floored by his pictures,” says Alecia Urbanik, who provides Care Coordination for Justin through Person Centered Services. “They’re so beautiful!”

Justin truly enjoys his day habilitation program for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities at Lifetime Assistance Inc. in Rochester, which he has attended for about 13 years. Alecia is in regular touch with the staff there, who support Justin in his artistic endeavors. In turn, Justin helps clean up the site and assists others in the program.

“Justin is exceeding at everything in day hab,” says Alecia. “He is a leader there – he’s always so friendly and great at acclimating to different situations. Everyone loves him!“

Alecia has worked with Justin and his family since September of 2021. She links Justin to programs, services, and appointments that help him reach his full potential. Currently, Alecia is looking to connect Justin to activities beyond his day program, such as art classes that will continue to foster his skills and talents.

“Alecia has been excellent,” says Rachel Howard, Justin’s mother. “I’m thankful that she’s here to help us.”

As a dedicated Care Coordinator, Alecia is very grateful to be of service. “Justin has a great support system,” she says. “He has an amazing family and I’m so happy to work with them.”

Recently, an assemblywoman purchased one of Justin’s paintings. He was very proud to share his work and plans to sell more of his art. He wants to use the proceeds from the paintings to buy additional paint-by-number kits, frames, and other art supplies.

“Justin is a loving, caring, and kind person,” says Rachel, who is glad to partner with Person Centered Services to support and empower her son and his work. “We are so excited to see him succeed!”