ProgressiveArt Studio

Progressive art studios, sometimes called supportive art studios or disability art studios, are nonprofit organizations dedicated to supporting artists with mental health conditions and intellectual and developmental disabilities as they seek to build and sustain careers in the arts.Creative Growth, which opened in 1974 in Oakland, California, was the first progressive art studio in the United States. Started by Florence Ludins-Katz, an artist and teacher, and Elias Katz, a psychologist, Creative Growth established a creative community program structure “guided by the principle that art is fundamental to human expression.” Disability arts and social service organizations have expanded on this model and founded progressive art studios across the country.Progressive art studios champion artists in developing their artistic practices and pursuing self-sustaining careers. The studio environment is facilitated by staff, often artists themselves, who provide mentorship and support the artists in navigating the studio environment, taking ownership of their art-making process, building community with fellow artists, and exploring new mediums and creative ideas. Studios also provide art supplies and exhibition opportunities, and often act as galleries, selling the artists’ work and generating income for them.