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The Sacramento Bee

December 9, 2008

Governor selects work by artist with disability for holiday greeting card

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By Rachael Bogert

Dennis Francesconi

Francesconi demonstrates his painting technique. Many of his works are on display at his Web site, www.sconi.com. You can also read more about Dennis Francesconi at Action Online, Magazine of the United Spinal Association

For the past two years, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has personally painted his holiday card. This year, he's giving the pleasure to artist Dennis Francesconi.

The governor and First Lady Maria Shriver chose Francesconi's "Christmas Night," an acrylic depicting a Christmas tree standing against a starry sky.

Francesconi, who paints with his mouth, will be the guest of honor tonight at the State Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. He was paralyzed almost 30 years ago in an accident and became a student member with Mouth and Foot Painting Artists in 1993. The organization is owned and controlled by its member artists.

Read more here about Dennis Francesconi ...