Bring More To Life

So much comes to life when people are welcomed, artists are empowered, and community values are shared.

When Caroline Chun joined Arts of Life in 2022, she was extremely shy. She initially only spoke to Curious George, the beloved stuffed monkey that provides comfort and accompanies her everywhere she goes. Sensitive to her social hesitance, staff gave her space while complimenting early sketches. When she started to share her art, the community was blown away by her diverse and inventive pieces, and offered glowing, enthusiastic praise.

Caroline’s vibrant and playful sense of humor quickly emerged from there. After Curious George started tapping people’s shoulders, the duo brought staff and artists in on their jokes, told aloud and then through drawings posted on studio walls.

Riffing with her comedic side, staff also engaged Caroline in conversation about her work and learned how to better support her by including other artists in their banter, providing private space for deeper conversation, and offering to write down her comments to share in larger group settings.

When asked what changed in her during that time, Caroline responded,

“I found people like me. I guess I thought no one liked me.”

Thank you for creating a space where artists with disabilities are seen, valued, and welcomed. This might be the first time someone feels fully accepted for who they are. You can make sure more artists have that opportunity.

Your belief in our model established an inclusive community where each artist has a voice and can reach their full potential, profoundly changing lives. Not only that, together we brought new programs to life as we found innovative ways to reach new artists and areas. We meet artists in their homes if they aren’t comfortable stepping outside. We offer classes at local art centers, integrating artists with their neighbors. In March, we launched a satellite studio on Chicago’s South Side, opening our community to artists previously out of reach.

As our fiscal year ends, we need to raise $138,000 to continue this growth and innovation. We can reach that with your help. Give today because all artists with disabilities deserve a creative home. Your generosity will sustain these new locations and ensure each program thrives with staff expertly trained as both artists and direct support professionals.

Together, we can bring more art, artists, and community to life.