Art By J Positive

09/23/2026

Joel says “Thunder Road is good music. And it’s a good story. It’s both.”

Joel has always been a huge Bruce Springsteen fan. So when he told us he was a songwriter and we asked him to sing one of his songs, he launched right into “Thunder Road” with full confidence.

Honestly, excellent taste in music. And who knows, maybe Joel’s own songwriting career is still coming.

09/16/2026

“I think it was really good.”

This is what Joel said of his wedding speech. 🥰

This was Joel’s toast to the bride at his sister Kendra’s recent wedding. Kendra is also known as “Little Angel Cakes”, the nickname Joel gave her many years ago. They have a beautiful bond, that we are forever grateful for. 🙏

We are so excited for Kendra & Sav as they begin the next chapter of their journey together. And we are eternally grateful for the love they share with Joel, and with all of us. ❤️

09/09/2026

Joel says “I do like visiting New York. The buildings are massive.”

About 20 years ago, we visited New York City and Joel stood at the Imagine memorial in Central Park.

We never would have imagined that one day his own artwork would be part of a New York City art show. 💛

We are thrilled to share that J Positive has been selected for his first-ever NYC art showing. The group exhibition features artists with Down syndrome and opens at Moments. Gallery on September 11, at the start of Buddy Walk weekend.

The artwork shown is one of his pieces that is being exhibited, which Joel calls “About Love.”

The art show is being presented in collaboration with the National Down Syndrome Society . And while we won’t be able to attend in person, but we are incredibly proud that Joel’s work will be included.

We’re also excited that Joel gets to be part of this show alongside these wonderful artists: Downs & Towns , GracePlace Art , Charlie French Fine Art , My Art, My World Kayla Snover Studio , Art of My Optimus , Sania Khimji.

A huge thank you to Vasia Makris for making this all happen. 🙏

If you’re in NYC in September, please stop into Moments Gallery for a visit. Details are available here: https://partiful.com/e/8QyWTQ9oGATx6NckTthR

This is a very special milestone for Joel and Art By J Positive. 🥰

09/02/2026

08/26/2026

Joel says “It feels good to make my own breakfast.”

A day in Joel’s life: Making breakfast, walking to pick up the mail, time for art, and then a little laptop show break.

Joel’s days have their own rhythm: Some independence, some fresh air, some creativity, and some well-earned downtime.

Simple moments. Good day. 💛

08/19/2026

These two J Positive originals, which Joel calls “TALK Concert” and “Ya It’s Way Positive”, recently found a new home together. Thanks so very much Shannon. We hope that they will bring joy to your home, and we are extremely grateful for the support. 💛

Joel says “Ya It’s Way Positive” is about songs with “way more positive words” and “totally clean language.” And “TALK Concert” was inspired by seeing perform in 2024. Joel says, “The TALK concert was fun. I was rocking out.” 🎵🥳

These were purchased at Petit Bill's Bistro restaurant, where Joel always has a small collection on display. Thank you as well to Terry and Randy for continuing to showcase Joel’s joyous creations. 🙏

Joel also recently uploaded more original creations to his website, so if you’re interested in purchasing a J Positive original, please visit artbyjpositive.com or see link in profile.

08/12/2026

Joel calls this one “The Sky at Night”, and he says “sometimes I do get lonely at night.”

Joel created this piece at Spring Studio , inspired by Van Gogh’s Starry Night. It was Joel’s first time using oil pastels, with encouragement from the wonderful staff at Silver Spring Studio.

The result is bright and beautiful, but also honest. Because sometimes the sky at night can feel that way too. 💛

08/05/2026

Joel says “I think I’m stronger.” 💪😄

He takes arm wrestling very seriously.

A little friendly competition with his friend Lilian, a lot of laughter, and one very proud winner.

Friendship is the best kind of strength. 💛

07/28/2026

Joel says “I really do demand the respect that I need. People need to learn to respect and how they are treating people.”

Respect is not something disabled people should have to earn. It is something everyone deserves.

A good reminder for Disability Pride Month. 💛

07/23/2026

Joel calls this one “Colourful People,” and he says, “I want to be friends with a lot of different people.” 🥰

This artwork has become one of the most popular designs in Joel’s store, showing up on shirts, mugs, hats, and more. We love seeing Joel’s message of friendship and connection turn into something people can wear and share.

Available at artbyjpositive.com, or through the link in bio.

Because Joel is right. Life is better with lots of different people in it. 💛