Able ARTS Work

 

Able ARTS Work was established in 1982 as a non-profit organization to provide inclusive programming for individuals with developmental disabilities & autism through the creative arts. 

Using the creative arts as a tool, our primary focus is to support artists with disabilities in their creative expression through inclusive community participation. Able ARTS Work also offers a number of programs to meet the needs of the community from health & wellness, arts education to enrichment. Each outreach program values contribution, accessibility, and engagement of people of all abilities and all ages.

 Able ARTS Work aims to foster inclusion through creativity, initiative, & expression. 

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We provide adult day services for people with moderate to severe intellectual & developmental disabilities & autism through:

•  Daily, long-term music & art therapy to develop & strengthen personal, social, & developmental goals.
•  Vocational opportunities in art & music to pursue a creative path to financial autonomy.

 Meet a Resident Artist of Able ARTS Work: 

             

"I feel confident & comfortable here at Able ARTS Work. I have learned so many skills from the many different classes. When I do Noise Band, I get to play the keyboard & sing - which is my favorite thing to do. It makes me feel elated & overjoyed. I love performing but love it when I get to do it with my peers. When we record in Noise Band, I love making the arrangements ... choosing what instruments should be in it or not to make it sound the best it can be. I really like the whole kit & caboodle. I want to be here until I am 103!" - Kristin, AAW Resident Artist 

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The Able ARTS Work gallery features original artwork & handmade items designed by resident artists. Our gallery was founded in the spirit of social inclusion, entrepreneurship & enterprise; to provide a creative space for artists, a place to be gainfully employed, & advocate for learning & personal growth to benefit the greater community.

Through the AAW Gallery, artists are provided : 

• Social inclusion for people with intellectual & developmental disabilities   
• Social entrepreneurship benefiting humanity through a business model of positive impact 
• Social enterprise using market-based strategies to advance our mission & values

Meet the Artists & Staff of the AAW Gallery :

        

"Exhibitions is an important part of the work we do at Able ARTS Work... we provide artists meaningful opportunities to be celebrated & earn commission showcasing work in our gallery or in community spaces & galleries. We create inclusive spaces that breakdown barriers in the arts & foster community through showcasing our resident artists alongside community artists. Many emerging artists have their first exhibition experience with us, gaining confidence & exposure, leading them to future opportunities in the arts." - Jennifer, Exhibitions Coordinator 

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