In honor of an amazing milestone, we’ve partnered with our friends at Alltimers on a limited collection of T-shirts and boards to celebrate 50 years of Creative Growth.
The project includes T-shirts and boards with artwork by Creative Growth artists William Scott, Dwight Mackintosh, Aurie Ramirez, John Martin, Ron Veasey, and Joe Spears.
The partnership aims to celebrate and raise awareness of Creative Growth’s mission to promote inclusivity and representation in the arts. It will be available online Tuesday, April 16th on creativegrowth.org, Alltimers.com, the SFMOMA gift shop, and skate shops nationwide.
For further information, or if you’d like to donate or purchase some of the artists’ work click here.
Lincoln Center's Big Umbrella Festival 2024 Limited-Edition Benefit Print and Commemorative Poster Features Maureen Clay
To celebrate this year’s Big Umbrella Festival, we are pleased to present Maureen Clay’s image, Untitled (MC260) as a limited-edition benefit print and commemorative poster published by Lincoln Center Editions. Proceeds support Lincoln Center’s nonprofit mission and programming. Complimentary posters will be gifted to a limited number of attendees of the Big Umbrella Festival 2024.
Build your own festival experience by booking the individual events below! View the full schedule here.
Big Umbrella Festival returns this April as we welcome kids, teens, and young adults for a weekend of programming, designed with and for neurodiverse audiences. Launched in 2018, the Big Umbrella Festival centers our audiences by sharing unique approaches to multi-sensory, interactive, and engaging artistic experiences. This year's events include a collaboration with ReelAbilities Film Festival, the largest festival in the world dedicated to showcasing ground-breaking films by and about people with disabilities; a thrilling interactive dance piece with music, Playful Tiger; Motus' TREE, A World in Itself, a multi-sensory, interactive universe enveloped in soft light, music, and silence; a piano concert by award-winning artist Lachi; and Architects of Air’s Daedalum, an experiential labyrinth for guests to explore with winding tunnels and colorful domes.
Clay paints with a thickly brushed impasto technique, layering colors repeatedly until the entire composition has been covered several times. She has an intricate sense of color and design, and while her work appears abstract, Clay describes her images as distorted versions of fish, birds, and food. Her work holds multitudes, appearing as a deep seascape, starry night sky, or a view through a microscope. Also a proficient textile artist, Clay, similarly to her painting practice, covers the surface of her clothing with pompoms, sequins, or dense layers of thread. Clay has practiced at Creative Growth Art Center since 1991.
Art in Embassies Announces Creative Growth Collection
As the United States approaches its 250th year, the State Department’s Art in Embassies program is working with cultural institutions, artists, families, and galleries to curate art collections that promote U.S. diplomacy.
Art in Embassies announces the establishment of the Creative Growth Collection, comprised of 89 artworks created by artists from the Creative Growth Art Center, all of whom have developmental disabilities.
The Creative Growth Art Center is a nonprofit based in Oakland, California, that promotes inclusivity in the contemporary art community by providing a platform for artists with disabilities. The selected works from the new collection span various mediums, including watercolor, ink, textiles, clay, mixed media, pastels, acrylics, linocuts, and digital prints. They will immediately become available for exhibit in U.S. embassies and Ambassadors’ residences under long-term loan agreements.
The Creative Growth Art Center not only represents the diversity of our democratic society but also has received the highest critical acclaim. Its artworks have been showcased in exhibitions at renowned institutions such as MoMA, the Smithsonian, and the Studio Museum of Harlem. With the guidance of professional artists, the Creative Growth Studio provides artistic support, high-quality materials, and a workspace for over 140 artists.
Art in Embassies Director Megan Beyer and Chief Curator Camille Benton announced the Collection during Art in Embassies’ 60th anniversary dinner with ambassadors and cultural leaders at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History.
The Office of Art in Embassies, established in 1963, plays a crucial role in U.S. public diplomacy, connecting nations through curated exhibitions. It showcases the innovation and cultural prowess of the United States and fosters cross-cultural connections.
For more information about Art in Embassies, visit art.state.gov.
Press inquiries can be sent to Megan Beyer at BeyerMC@state.gov.
OAKLAND MUSEUM OF CALIFORNIA ANNOUNCES MAJOR ACQUISITION OF WORKS FROM ITS CURRENT EXHIBITION FEATURING ARTISTS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES
Over 70 Artworks by Artists from Creativity Explored, Creative Growth & NIAD Art
Center from Into the Brightness Exhibition Added to Permanent Collection
Exhibition Extended until Sunday January 28, 2024
(OAKLAND, CA) January 23, 2024— The Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) announced today its acquisition of over 70 individual artworks — including paintings, sculptures, video, works on paper, textiles and more —featured in its current major exhibition, Into the Brightness: Artists from Creativity Explored, Creative Growth & NIAD, marking the largest acquisition drawn from a single exhibition in OMCA’s history.
A man with a joyful expression stands to the right side of the image, presenting a colorful outfit on a mannequin. He is wearing a graphic t-shirt, a grey zip-up hoodie, and dark pants. On his feet are red sneakers with white soles. To his left is the mannequin, dressed in a white blazer and pants adorned with rainbow stripes, stars, and various other designs. Behind them, an abstract sculpture hangs from the ceiling, and another gold-toned sculpture stands in the background. The setting appears to be an art or fashion exhibition.
On the eve of the closing of Into the Brightness, these additions to the Museum’s permanent collection represent years of partnership building, community engagement, and institutional collaboration with the three Bay Area studios: Creativity Explored in San Francisco, Creative Growth in Oakland, and NIAD Art Center in Richmond. Through this acquisition, OMCA will integrate these works into its regular rotation schedule within the Gallery of California Art, as well as featuring them in future multidisciplinary projects and exhibitions.
"Into the Brightness captured the overflowing gifts of the artists of Creativity Explored, Creative Growth, and NIAD,” said Linda Johnson, Executive Director of Creativity Explored. “Now, OMCA's milestone investment in artwork from the three Katz-founded centers means that the influence of disabled artists will continue to ripple through the Bay Area art world — and beyond. I can’t wait to see our artists’ works in conversation with others in future exhibitions.”
"We are honored by the Oakland Museum of California's significant acquisition from the Into the Brightness exhibition. This remarkable gesture not only celebrates the extraordinary talents of artists from Creative Growth, but also underscores the importance of collaboration and community in the arts,” said Tom di Maria, Director Emeritus. “The inclusion of these works in OMCA's permanent collection and their future display is a testament to the diverse and dynamic spirit of artistic expression in the Bay Area. It marks a milestone in our ongoing mission to foster inclusivity and accessibility in the art world."
“This historic acquisition of works by NIAD artists holds so much meaning. It is significant that the Oakland Museum of California is an East Bay institution and a bastion of social and environmental justice within the museum world. It matters that OMCA houses collections—not only of contemporary art but also of history and science—that are in a unique dialogue with each other,” said Amanda Eicher, Executive Director of NIAD Art Center. “As these works join OMCA's collection, we celebrate the more than three years of collaborative commitment on the part of OMCA's curatorial team. The inclusion of NIAD artists in this acquisition expands the scope of OMCA’s entire collection, and that is exactly what NIAD artists aim to do in the art world at large: make an impact.”
Core to OMCA’s collection stewardship and curation practice is a relationship-first approach with artists. Into the Brightness serves as a monumental example of this: the OMCA exhibition team worked directly with artists and studio staff at Creativity Explored, Creative Growth and NIAD Art Center over regular community convenings and many studio visits to determine how they would all collaborate together on this project and organize the exhibition. These efforts resulted in the largest museum exhibition in over a decade featuring more than 200 artists from the three Bay Area institutions.
Rooted in the idea that making art is a fundamental human practice and form of communication that all people are entitled to, Into the Brightness invites visitors to consider these artists’ perspectives on the world through their powerful work across multiple artistic disciplines including painting, sculpture, film, multimedia, textiles, and more. OMCA’s relationship with the three organizations dates back many years. Past collaborations include multiple years hosting Creative Growth’s annual fundraiser and fashion show, Beyond Trend, and acquisitions of single artworks for OMCA’s permanent collection including Deena Jones , 1996, by William Scott in 2016, and Untitled, 1996, a sculpture by the late artist Judith Scott in 2004. A major acquisition of works from the three studios was identified as an institutional priority in OMCA’s collection plans as early as 2014.
Nineteen artists are represented in the acquisition including Jeremy Burleson mixed media lamp sculptures; Karen May’s drawings on found Artforum pages; John Patrick McKenzie’s monumental scroll - a text-based drawing referencing pop culture and his Filipino identity; Dan Miller’s abstractions of layered numbers and words; Dorian Reid’s ceramic self-portrait as a cat and portrait of her mother, Betty Reid Soskin, as a cat; Lance Rivers’ multi-layered urban skyline; Monica Valentine’s sculptures densely beaded with pins and sequins; Marilyn Wong’s exuberant abstract painting; Ying Ge Zhou’s enigmatic watercolor portraits. “The history of the Bay Area art scene is incomplete without recognition of the work and stories of the artists from Creativity Explored, Creative Growth, and NIAD Art Center,” said Carin Adams, curator of the exhibition and senior curator of art at OMCA. “Through this acquisition, OMCA will be better equipped to tell a more reflective and nuanced story of California through OMCA’s interdisciplinary approach and the rich perspectives of these existing and emerging artists in our community. It has been a deeply meaningful experience for me and for our team at OMCA to work with these studios and the artists over many years, to get to know their work and their working processes, and then to culminate this project by bringing these exceptional objects into our collection to steward and present long into the future.”
This acquisition is announced during the final weeks of the Into the Brightness exhibition. Visitors are invited to view the show before it closes. Due to popular demand, the exhibition’s run was extended to Sunday, January 28, 2024. The OMCA Garden will be aglow in lights starting Wednesday, January 24 to Sunday, January 28 in celebration of the exhibition’s closing.
Photos and checklists of the acquired artworks can be found here.
Creative Growth 2023 Year in Review
2023 was an exceptional year for Creative Growth Art Center, with a slew of remarkable achievements and recognition from the press, major institutions, and art fairs. Here is a recap of the Center's standout moments:
WE HIRED A NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR!
In 2023, Creative Growth appointed Ginger Shulick Porcella to lead the organization as its new Executive Director. Porcella joined Creative Growth from Franconia Sculpture Park in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Porcella has been selected to further the organization’s vision of bringing art and access to everyone, fostering a culture of care and respect, and amplifying the disability arts community through radical visibility and artistic expression.
SFMOMA Partnership
Creative Growth made headlines in The New York Times with a groundbreaking story highlighting the largest museum acquisition in its history. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) acquired a significant collection of artworks from Creative Growth artists, solidifying the Center's impact on the contemporary art scene on the eve of its 50th Anniversary of 2024.
Into the Brightness Exhibition at Oakland Museum of California:
In collaboration with three profound Bay Area institutions, Into the Brightness: Artists from Creativity Explored, Creative Growth & NIAD celebrates myriad works from contemporary artists with developmental disabilities. From painting to sculpture to multimedia, these world-renowned artists are producing work of incredible power, exuberance, humor, complexity, and joy.
Into the Brightness presents a variety of dynamic perspectives from the artists’ personal experiences of the world. This original, collaborative exhibition is the largest museum exhibition in over a decade featuring artists from the three local organizations –Creativity Explored in San Francisco, Creative Growth in Oakland, and NIAD (Nurturing Independence Through Artistic Development) Art Center in Richmond.
External Exhibitions and Art Fairs
Creative Growth Art Center participated in prestigious exhibitions, art fairs and events around the world including two fine art fairs, three museum acquisitions, six gallery consignments, four outgoing loans, three marketplace events, three Oakland exhibitions, eight artist-led installations, three artist workshops, five first fridays, three Beyond Trend events, three brand collaborations, two artist murals, and one Artist-Curated Exhibition. Key highlights are listed below:
Outsider Art Fair, a premier event for self-taught and outsider artists drawing art collectors, enthusiasts, and curators eager to explore the innovative and unconventional works on display.
Creative Growth group showing at 16th Edition of Drawing Now Paris
William Scott at the Independent Art Fair in New York
“Beautiful Peace on Earth” A group Show at Diane Rosenstein Gallery in Los Angeles
Lauren Dare Solo Show with Sargent’s Daughters West
Aurie Ramirez Solo Exhibition at Summertime Gallery - NYC
Creative Growth at NADA Miami 2023
Collaborations and Partnerships
Throughout the year, Creative Growth cultivated meaningful partnerships with leading global brands, further establishing itself as a leader in the disability arts movement. 2023 brand partnerships of note included a graphic T-shirt collaboration with Madewell, a limited-edition capsule with Baggu, a sustainably-minded partnership with luxury brand Erica Tanov and an eye-catching collab with New York-based 6397 The News.
Community Involvement
Creative Growth remained deeply committed to its local community, hosting artist talks and workshops, outreach programs, and educational initiatives that empowered individuals of all abilities to tap into their creative potential.
Awards and Recognition
Creative Growth Art Center has been selected to participate in the prestigious Art in Embassies program, shining a spotlight on its exceptional contributions to the world of art and inclusivity. Through this partnership, Creative Growth will showcase the unique talents of its artists, emphasizing the power of creativity to transcend boundaries and connect diverse communities. As an ambassador of artistic expression, Creative Growth continues to bridge the gap between disability and artistry, inspiring global audiences and promoting a more inclusive and diverse cultural landscape.
In 2023, Creative Growth Art Center reached new heights, solidifying its position as a global leader in supporting artists with disabilities. With groundbreaking museum acquisitions, successful exhibitions, and participation in prestigious art fairs, the Center continued to redefine the boundaries of contemporary art while fostering inclusivity and diversity in the art world. 2024 marks the center’s 50th anniversary and promises even more remarkable achievements and opportunities for its talented and inspiring artists.
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Creative Growth Art Center Presents 2023 Holiday Show
Embroidery on canvas artwork by Sherry Stanley
Creative Growth Art Center Presents 2023 Holiday Show
A Gift-Giver's Paradise Celebrating Community, Creativity and Disability Pride
(November 14, 2023) – Creative Growth, a renowned center for artists with disabilities, is excited to announce its much-anticipated Annual Holiday Show. This historic community celebration promises to be a festive extravaganza that brings together art, music, and the spirit of giving.
Creative Growth's Annual Holiday Show is a beloved tradition, known for drawing crowds from across the Bay Area and beyond, with lines often stretching around the block. The event will take place at the Creative Growth Art Center, where the space will be magically transformed into a gift-giver's paradise, featuring a stunning array of one-of-a-kind holiday treasures created by the center's talented artists.
Guests can expect a lively and inclusive atmosphere suitable for all ages. The event will be filled with the joyful sounds of live bands, ensuring a rockin' party for all attendees. The festive decorations will transport visitors into a holiday wonderland, igniting the holiday spirit and warm feelings of togetherness.
What makes this Holiday Show even more special is its mission to support artists with disabilities. Every purchase of a unique holiday gift directly contributes to supporting these artists and allows them to continue their creative journeys. Creative Growth has a long history of fostering artistic expression and providing a platform for artists with disabilities to shine, and this event is a perfect embodiment of that mission.
Key Event Details:
Online Sale: Starting November 22nd, 2023 at www.creativegrowth.org
In Person Show: Friday, December 1st, 2023 and Saturday, December 2nd, 2023
Time:
MEMBER PREVIEW:
December 1st, 5:00 - 6:00 PM
PUBLIC OPENING:
December 1st, 6:00 - 9:00 PM
December 2nd, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: Creative Growth Art Center, 355 24th Street, Oakland, CA 94612
Live Bands: Fantasy the Band
Admission: Free and open to the public
"We are thrilled to once again host our Annual Holiday Show, a cherished event that celebrates the creativity and resilience of our artists while bringing our community together," said Ginger Shulick Porcella, Executive Director at Creative Growth. "It's a perfect opportunity to find unique and meaningful holiday gifts while supporting a great cause."
Creative Growth invites everyone to join in the festivities and share in the joy of giving. Make this holiday season memorable by attending the Annual Holiday Show and discovering extraordinary gifts that are sure to delight your loved ones.
For more information about Creative Growth and the Annual Holiday Show, please visit www.creativegrowth.org or contact ibby@creativegrowth.org.
Accessibility
Mask Policy
Masks are optional but encouraged!
Restrooms
Multiple stall gendered restrooms are on the first floor. To access a single-stall gender-neutral bathroom, please ask a volunteer or staff person. There are no diaper changing stations available. Ask staff for assistance.
Sensory Room
The event will likely be crowded and loud. To access the sensory room (on the second floor accessible by stairs and elevator), please ask a volunteer or staff person.
Language Access
ASL, Mandarin and Spanish interpretation will be provided on Friday, December 1.
Para apoyo en español, póngase en contacto con Emma: emma@creativegrowth.org.
Contact Information
For questions or comments about accessibility, please contact Emma Peyton: emma@creativegrowth.org
Stay tuned for more updates about accessible Holiday Show experiences.
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Double Your Impact This #GivingTuesday For Our 150+ Artists
At Creative Growth, our artists inspire everything we do. This year we’ve been able to reconnect with artists in the studio and facilitate once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Aurie Ramirez just flew to New York for her solo exhibition at Summertime Gallery, took a horse-drawn carriage ride, and enjoyed her favorite—dumplings!
Lauren Dare just celebrated her first ever solo exhibition at Sargent’s Daughters in LA, and we felt honored to have participated in that special moment with Lauren and her family.
These stories demonstrate how Creative Growth provides a nurturing space for artists to develop their voices and share their talents with the world.
Twice the Giving
This year, your gift to Creative Growth will be doubled up to a total of $25,000 with our dollar-for-dollar matching gift challenge from our Board of Directors. Be sure to make your contribution by November 30, 2023 to double your impact.
You can donate online here or by mailing a check to Creative Growth Art Center at 355 24th Street, Oakland, CA 94612.
Your Donation at Work:
$100: Provides a day's worth of high-quality art supplies and materials for the artists
$250: Sponsors two hours of ASL interpretation, a critical need for language accessibility to d/Deaf artists and staff
$500: Provides Braille interpretation for one of our Oakland Gallery exhibitions
$1,500: Sponsors one young person with disabilities to attend our Saturday Youth Program free of charge. Give the gift of inclusion and empowerment this Giving Tuesday!
Help Fulfill our Specific Studio Needs:
$8,000: Supplies 2 kilns for our ceramics department
$800: Grants our artists with a much-needed air purifier with a HEPA filter for the ceramics class, which is super important for the health of the artists and teachers as silica inhalation can cause cancer
$2,000: Covers the cost of a dozen noise-cancelling headphones and ear buds for artists who are noise-sensitive
$200: Provides a lightweight skill saw for artists working in our wood shop who are unable to lift heavy tools
$700: Supplies a table saw for our wood shop to continue creating larger-than-life art
$1,000: Covers the cost of various tables and chairs designed specifically for artists with accessibility needs
We hope you will consider contributing at any amount that is meaningful to you in support of the 150+ artists with developmental disabilities that this beloved Oakland-based art center serves.
Thank you!
Introducing the Creative Growth x Madewell Graphic T Collection
Cool artsy news: Creative Growth has partnered with Madewell on a limited run of graphic tees featuring the work of artists Nicole Storm, Ying Ge Zhou and Gina Damerell. In honor of the collab, Madewell is donating $10,000 to Creative Growth and their goal of advancing the inclusion of artists with developmental disabilities in contemporary art by providing a supportive studio environment and gallery representation.
San Francisco, join us tonight 10/26 to meet artist Nicole Storm and learn more about Creative Growth. RSVP via link here.
Can’t make it, shop the collaboration online or in-store all holiday season!
SFMOMA AND CREATIVE GROWTH ART CENTER ANNOUNCE UNPRECEDENTED PARTNERSHIP IN CELEBRATION OF CREATIVE GROWTH’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY
SFMOMA Additionally Acquires Vibrant Range of Artworks from
Locally Based Organizations Creativity Explored and NIAD
SAN FRANCISCO, CA (October 23, 2023)—The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) and Oakland-based Creative Growth Art Center announced today an unprecedented partnership that honors the emergence of the art and disability movement in the Bay Area and brings to the fore a critical and often overlooked aspect of the region’s artistic richness. Coinciding with Creative Growth’s 50th anniversary, the partnership encompasses the acquisition of more than 100 works created by artists associated with Creative Growth; the development of two exhibitions with Creative Growth artists; and the presentation of a series of events that will be activated over the course of three years. Additionally, SFMOMA will acquire works from Creative Growth’s two Bay Area peer organizations, with 31 objects from San Francisco-based Creativity Explored and 12 from Richmond-based NIAD (Nurturing Independence through Artistic Development). Together, the acquisitions make SFMOMA home to one of the largest collections of art by artists with disabilities, a historic moment of recognition for a group of artists long underrecognized by the art world.
We are thrilled to embark on this remarkable partnership with SFMOMA that further diversifies the museum’s collection to include more than 100 works by marginalized Bay Area artists," said Tom di Maria, Director Emeritus at Creative Growth Art Center. “This collaboration builds critical bridges between different communities of artists, disability activists, and cultural leaders and viewers, strengthening the artistic landscape of the Bay Area.
SFMOMA's investment marks a historic milestone in the contemporary art world,” said Ginger Shulick Porcella, Executive Director at Creative Growth Art Center. “It has been far too long that art institutions have ignored or underrecognized artists with disabilities. These talented creators can no longer be relegated to the category of 'outsider artists' as they firmly occupy the walls of museums worldwide.
Creative Growth was founded in 1974 by Elias Katz and Florence Ludins-Katz as a pioneering non-profit art center providing a platform for artists with disabilities to express themselves. One of the first U.S. organizations dedicated to supporting artists with disabilities, Creative Growth serves as an international model for the field of art and disability. The organization remains artist-run, serves over 140 artists in its studio weekly, and presents artists’ work in galleries and exhibition venues around the globe. Creativity Explored and NIAD (Nurturing Independence through Artistic Development) were also founded by the Katzes—in 1983 and 1984 respectively—and are similarly devoted to artists with developmental disabilities. The three organizations, with their trailblazing histories and deep connections to decades of practicing artists, are together one of the most distinguishing facets of the Bay Area arts ecology and equally hold international importance.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with a groundbreaking organization like Creative Growth and to establish another lasting relationship with a cultural leader in our community. This partnership celebrates the work of an extraordinary group of artists as well as the visionaries who have championed them for decades, well before the international art world began to take critical notice. We are thrilled to provide an additional platform for the work of these highly talented creators and to bring much deserved visibility to their distinct voices, perspectives and works,” said Christopher Bedford, the Helen and Charles Schwab Director of SFMOMA. “This partnership is part of our ongoing effort to fulfill SFMOMA’s vision to present and collect a more diverse range of artists, expanding our understanding of art history and the narratives and artists that have shaped it. It is one important step of many in the museum’s overdue commitment to prioritize accessibility and artists with disabilities.”
EXHIBITIONS AND EVENTS
In Spring 2024, SFMOMA will open an exhibition celebrating the 50th anniversary of Creative Growth and featuring a selection from the 114 works by 10 Creative Growth artists acquired by the museum this fall. Among the artists are Joseph Alef, Camille Holvoet, Susan Janow, Dwight Mackintosh, John Martin, Dan Miller, Donald Mitchell, Judith Scott, William Scott and Ron Veasey. The exhibition will also include gifts and promised gifts, as well as a selection of archival materials. Together, the works date from 1980 to 2022, and range in media from acrylic and oil pastel to video, ceramic, drawings and papier-mâché.
The exhibition program will also include a commission by Creative Growth artist William Scott, as part of SFMOMA’s ongoing Bay Area Walls series. Well-known for his paintings and drawings of detailed cityscapes that express faith and hope in San Francisco, as well as portraits of family members, public figures and fantasy people, Scott will create a mural at the entryway to SFMOMA’s second floor galleries, located within SFMOMA’s free art-filled public space.
SFMOMA will also host a series of events with Creative Growth, including the 5th annual Creative Growth Creating Community symposium. Several talks for the symposium will be jointly organized by Creative Growth and SFMOMA; talks will be hosted both at SFMOMA and in Oakland in Spring 2024. The museum will additionally host Creative Growth’s extraordinary Beyond Trend Gala, marking the organization’s milestone anniversary. The gala is slated to include the annual must-see showcase that features original designs created and modeled by Creative Growth artists.
CREATIVE GROWTH ACQUISITIONS
SFMOMA’s acquisition of 114 works from Creative Growth includes objects by 10 artists long associated with the organization:
Joseph Alef (b. 1981, Berkeley, California), who has practiced at Creative Growth 2001–2008 and 2013 to the present, creates layered, organic abstract paintings filled with bright colors, graphic lines and an expressive vocabulary of mark making.
Before moving to Creativity Explored in 2001, Camille Holvoet (b. 1952, San Francisco) practiced at Creative Growth from 1988 to 2001. While her current work focuses on cakes, Ferris wheels and other favorite motifs of pleasure, the imagery from her time at Creative Growth is autobiographical, with a distinct narrative impulse emphasized by descriptive titles such as “feeling asleep when i obsessing.”
A Creative Growth artist since 2003, Susan Janow (b. 1980, San Francisco, California) creates work across a range of media, including drawing, ceramics and video. Her methodical and meditative drawings begin with an open grid that she meticulously fills in with graphic lines and bright colors that create patterns and forms with an expressive linear rhythm. Her best-known work, Questions (2018), is a 10-minute single-channel video that shifts between standard interview-like questions and personal inquiries.
Dwight Mackintosh (b. Hayward, California, 1906–1999) was 72 years old when he began working at Creative Growth after a lifetime of living in institutions. During his 20 years at the organization, he developed a remarkable visual language to depict favored imagery: self-portraits, buses and rows of figures. Mackintosh also explores text as abstracted imagery, turning letters into flowing graphic elements that tumble across the composition.
John Martin (b. 1963, Marks, Mississippi) has practiced at the organization since 1986. Using vividly colored drawings, ceramics and woodwork, Martin combines memories of his childhood on a farm in Mississippi with his present life in Oakland.
Featured in the 2017 Venice Biennale, Dan Miller (b. 1961, Castro Valley, California) is one of Creative Growth’s most widely known artists. A Creative Growth artist since 1992, Miller works ambidextrously, using both hands to create densely layered paintings and works on paper. Dan has a rich practice of paintings and drawings that feature thick clouds of words, numbers, lines, symbols and colors aggregated into a central mass.
Donald Mitchell (b. 1951, San Francisco, California) explores the motif of the figure in his drawings, which the artist depicts as thick, square bodies that are often thronged into a dense crowd. A Creative Growth artist since 1986, Mitchell deftly alternates between color and black-and-white in his work.
Judith Scott (b. 1943, Columbus, Ohio; died 2005, Dutch Flat, California) is an internationally known Creative Growth artist. Her work was featured in a retrospective organized by the Brooklyn Museum in 2014 and she was included in the 2017 Venice Biennale. Scott started working at Creative Growth when she was 43 years old and created art there for the next 18 years, until her death in 2005. Her intricate, layered sculptures use yarn, twine and strips of fabric to wrap and knot around an array of mundane everyday objects.
William Scott (b. 1964, San Francisco, California) has worked at Creative Growth for over 30 years and his work is already held in SFMOMA’s collection. Working across painting, drawing and sculpture, Scott is known for poignant portraits of family members, musicians, actors and politicians.
Ron Veasey (b. 1957, Las Vegas, Nevada) has been a Creative Growth artist for over 40 years. He develops brilliantly colored portraits that are sourced from magazines and books on photography. He distills his reference materials into images of people with strong outlines, bold colors and geometric patterns.
CREATIVITY EXPLORED + NIAD (Nurturing Independence through Artistic Development) ACQUISITIONS
SFMOMA also acquired an outstanding slate of works from San Francisco-based Creativity Explored and Richmond-based NIAD (Nurturing Independence through Artistic Development).
“Creativity Explored, NIAD and Creative Growth were dreamed into existence by our visionary founders, Florence Ludins-Katz and Elias Katz. Their innate understanding of the value that disabled artists bring has meant better lives for people with disabilities worldwide, and a richer, realer art world for everyone. This historic acquisition by SFMOMA recognizes the historic significance of the Katzes' dream and underscores the museum's commitment to a more inclusive arts landscape,” said Linda Johnson, Executive Director of Creativity Explored.
“NIAD is thrilled to play a part in SFMOMA's strategy to diversify its collection and widen inclusion within its walls. It has been an honor to work with the curatorial and acquisitions teams, and their work, commitment and consideration have been evident throughout the process,” said Amanda Eicher, Executive Director of NIAD. “Collaboration and partnership are at the heart of NIAD's work. Many NIAD artists would echo the sentiment that inclusion in one of the most significant collections of modern art worldwide is incredibly meaningful to their work and its visibility. Artists practicing in our studios are passionate about their leadership roles in the art world, and this acquisition reflects yet another way in which NIAD artists are redefining contemporary art.”
Among the 31 acquisitions from Creativity Explored are works by Mary Belknap (b. 1944, San Francisco, California), Peter Cordova (b. 1966, Philippines), Daniel Green (b. 1985, San Francisco), Walter Kresnik (b. 1957, Ontario, Canada), John Patrick McKenzie (b. 1962, Philippines), Bertha Otoya (b. 1979, Peru) and Evelyn Reyes (b. 1957, San Francisco, California).
The selection of acquisitions from NIAD includes 12 works by Julio del Rio (b. 1988, El Tepehuaje, Michoacan, Mexico), Karen May (b. 1950, Fresno, California), Marlon Mullen (b. 1963, Richmond, California) and Arstanda Billy White (b. 1962, Richmond, California).
This significant acquisition of over 150 works from Creative Growth, Creativity Explored and NIAD will join several objects already in the museum’s collection by artists associated with each of these organizations: Judith Scott (Creative Growth), William Scott (Creative Growth), Alice Wong (Creative Growth), Marlon Mullen (NIAD) and Dan Michiels (Creativity Explored), as well as several promised gifts from supporters in the community.
SFMOMA plans to feature a diverse range of these acquired works in galleries throughout the museum over time, bringing the artists and their voices into active artistic and institutional dialogues with other artists in the collection.
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
151 Third Street
San Francisco, CA 94103
The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is one of the largest museums of modern and contemporary art in the United States and a thriving cultural center for the Bay Area. Our remarkable collection of painting, sculpture, photography, architecture, design and media arts is housed in a LEED Gold-certified building designed by the global architects Snøhetta and Mario Botta. In addition to our seven gallery floors, SFMOMA now offers more than 62,000 square feet of free art-filled public space open to all.
Visit sfmoma.org or call 415.357.4000 for more information.
** Follow us on X for updates and announcements: @SFMOMA_Press
About Creative Growth
Creative Growth is a non-profit organization based in Oakland, California that advances the inclusion of artists with developmental disabilities in contemporary art and strengthens community by providing a supportive studio environment and gallery representation. Founded in 1974, Creative Growth is a leader in the field of arts and disabilities, establishing a model for a creative community guided by the principle that art is fundamental to human expression and that all people are entitled to its tools of communication.
About Creativity Explored
Creativity Explored was founded in 1983 in a Mission District garage by two visionaries of the art and disabilities movement, Florence Ludins-Katz and Elias Katz— and has since grown to support 140 artists in San Francisco, including some who have worked at the studio for all 40 years. Creativity Explored has been an enduring community cornerstone, facilitating the careers of hundreds of disabled artists who have seen their work exhibited in museums, galleries, high-end luxury properties, affordable housing projects, art products, and art fairs in over 14 countries. San Francisco's artistic community is deeply intertwined with and influenced by Creativity Explored, with many professional artists participating at some point in their careers as staff, volunteers, and collaborators.
NIAD
Now in its 41st year, NIAD Art Center is a progressive art studio that promotes creative expression, independence, inclusion, and community integration for adult artists with disabilities. NIAD facilitates both a Virtual and a Richmond, California-based studio and exhibition space, programmed by and with NIAD artists.
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Media Contacts
Clara Hatcher Baruth, chatcher@sfmoma.org, 415.357.4177
Ibby Sasso, ibby@creativegrowth.org, 415.652.8821
Uptown Art & Fashion Walk – Oakland Style Week
UPTOWN ART & FASHION WALK
View art and fashion by Oakland’s artist and maker community in the birthplace of Oakland’s Art Scene on an art walk led by local expert Carolyn Smith
FREE WITH SUGGESTED DONATION
OCTOBER 21st, 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Meet at Creative Growth Art Center, 355 24th Street, Oakland, CA 94612
Featuring:
Creative Growth Gallery; View “Animals”, an exhibition featuring over 100 works by artists currently practicing in the studio. The gallery will also feature original textile designs and custom fashion designs for purchase from Creative Growth Center artists
Mercury 20 Gallery; Join artist Andrea Guskin in a collaborative weaving activity on a giant tapestry loom from 2:30-4:30. Weave with upcycled fabrics sourced from local designers and thrift stores
Manna Gallery; “Songs and Stories”, an exhibit of abstract paintings by Irene Nelson alongside an installation highlighting the incredible talents of Oakland Technical High School Fashion/Art/Design Academy students
Local Language Art+Design+Fabrication; Installation by Artist in Residence Tabitha Soren
Werkshack; Wearable art and clothing with a strong focus on sustainability. Join them and increase your understanding of how things are made and deepen your personal connection to the things you wear.
Space is limited to 30, RSVP requested. All ages welcome. Free with a suggested donation of $5-$15
Additional details, including Accessibility information by clicking the link below:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/708064408707?aff=oddtdtcreator
Check out the full Oakland Style Week schedule here
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Creative Growth Art Center Presents "Text Me: Exploring Typography in Art" Exhibition
Exhibition will be open to the public from July 14th to September 2nd, 2023
(Oakland, California, July 11, 2023) – Creative Growth Art Center, a pioneering nonprofit organization supporting artists with disabilities, is delighted to announce its latest exhibition, "Text Me: Exploring Typography in Art." The exhibition, which focuses on the captivating world of typography, will be on display from July 14th to September 2nd, 2023 at the Creative Growth Art Center in Oakland, California.
"Text Me" invites visitors to immerse themselves in a visual journey that celebrates the power and versatility of typography as a form of artistic expression. The exhibition envelops the gallery in a captivating spotlight on typography, showcasing a remarkable collection of artworks that explore the intersection of language, design, and art.
Typography has long played a crucial role in communication and has evolved to become an art form in itself. "Text Me" highlights the diverse ways in which artists utilize the written word as a powerful tool to convey emotions, narratives, and social commentary. From bold and experimental letterforms to typography-infused mixed media works, this exhibition presents a dynamic and thought-provoking exploration of the printed word.
Creative Growth Art Center is thrilled to present 'Text Me”' an exhibition that showcases the incredible talent and creativity of our artists. Typography has the ability to transcend language and connect people on a visual and emotional level. This exhibition is a testament to the profound impact typography can have and the unique perspectives our artists bring to this art form.
- Ginger Shulick Porcella, Executive Director of Creative Growth Art Center
An opening reception for "Text Me: Exploring Typography in Art" will be held on July 14th, 2023 from 5-8pm, providing an opportunity for visitors to engage with the artists and gain deeper insights into their creative process. The exhibition is free and the Creative Growth Gallery welcomes all to experience the immersive world of typography. The gallery hours are Tuesday-Friday by appointment from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm and Saturdays: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm. For further information, please visit www.creativegrowth.org.
NYT's Favorite Places to See Art in California Feature
Creative Growth was featured in the June 8th, 2023 edition of the New York Times newsletter “California Today” as one of the “Favorite Places to See Art in California” … Our artists and staff couldn’t be more honored and thrilled! Read more here.
New York Times logo and headline “These Are Your Favorite Places to See Art in California” in orange text. Below text is an image of Creative Growth artist Dan Miller working with longtime CG volunteer Erica Chan Coffman. Besides the image is a quote reading” Creative Growth is one of the best and most inspirational galleries to visit. It is an art gallery for artists with intellectual disabilities. They have a day program for the artists, gallery shows and an annual art fashion show, and a stable of artists, a few of whom have pieces in the Museum of Modern Art in New York, among other places. “ - Colin Cooper, Berkeley
TBW Books Announces New Photography Book Releases: Painting Photographs and Man Unraveling by Creative Growth Artist Alice Wong
TBW Books Announces New Photography Book Releases: Painting Photographs and Man Unraveling by Creative Growth Artist Alice Wong
Read More
ERICA TANOV PARTNERS WITH CREATIVE GROWTH ART CENTER ON ERICA TANOV REVOLVE PROGRAM, FOSTERING SUSTAINABILITY AND SUPPORTING ARTISTIC EXPRESSION
L to R: Erica Tanov x Creative Growth Revolve Skirt by Alice Ung; Erica Tanov x Creative Growth Revolve Design; Erica Tanov x Revolve Skirt by Carol Fullen; Ying Ge Zhou working on Erica Tanov x Creative Growth Revolve Design
BERKELEY, CA - (May 30, 2023) - Erica Tanov, a designer renowned for timeless clothing and a commitment to artistic endeavors, is proud to announce the launch of the Erica Tanov x Creative Growth Revolve program. This innovative initiative aims to embrace circular economies, promote sustainability in the fashion and textile industries, and support artists with developmental, mental, and physical disabilities.
As a values-driven business, Erica Tanov has always been synonymous with time treasured clothing and artistic pursuits. With a dedication to thoughtful design, ethical consumption, and responsible manufacturing, Erica Tanov is excited to deepen its commitment through the Erica Tanov Revolve program in partnership with Creative Growth Art Center.
The concept behind Erica Tanov Revolve is to provide a platform for the community to pass on their gently worn Erica Tanov pieces. By donating these items to artists at Creative Growth Art Center, individuals contribute to artful reuse and inspire the creation of one-of-a-kind textiles and wearable garments by talented artists. The resulting collaborative pieces will be showcased in seasonal exhibitions held at the Erica Tanov Berkeley store, where both the artworks and artists will be celebrated. All proceeds from these exhibitions will be donated to the Creative Growth Art Center, further supporting their mission of advancing the inclusion of artists with developmental disabilities in contemporary art and strengthening community.
We are thrilled to launch the Erica Tanov x Creative Growth Revolve program," said Erica Tanov, founder of the eponymous brand. "This collaboration represents our commitment to sustainability, ethical consumption, and supporting an organization that is near and dear to my heart. By donating your gently worn Erica Tanov pieces, you contribute to a circular economy and enable Creative Growth artists to create unique garments that exemplify the power of collaboration and artistic expression.
Creative Growth Art Center holds the distinction of being the oldest and largest non-profit center for artists with developmental, mental, and physical disabilities. Since its inception in 1974, Creative Growth has played a vital role in raising public interest in the artistic capabilities and achievements of individuals with disabilities. Through its professional, multimedia studio environment, gallery exhibitions, and representation, Creative Growth empowers artists to express themselves and make a significant impact in the art world.
Participating in the Erica Tanov x Creative Growth Revolve program is simple. Individuals can mail their gently worn Erica Tanov pieces, along with their name and email address, to the Erica Tanov Studio located at 1808 Fifth St, Berkeley, CA 94710. Local customers also have the option to bring their items directly to the Erica Tanov store at 1827 Fourth St, Berkeley, CA 94710. In gratitude for their contribution, participants will receive a 15% discount code towards any future Erica Tanov clothing purchase over $100, which can be redeemed online or in-store without an expiration date.
For more information about the Erica Tanov x Creative Growth Revolve program, please visit www.ericatanov.com/revolve.
Creative Growth Art Center's Annual Home Show Returns, Highlighting Work From Over 50 Creative Growth Artists
Curated Window Displays Feature Freestyle SAORI Loom Weavings from Casey Byrnes and Mixed Media Magic from Artist Sherry Stanley
Creative Growth Art Center is thrilled to announce the return of their annual Home Show exhibition, showcasing the work of over 50 artists with developmental disabilities. This beloved event celebrates the power of community and the talent of Creative Growth's artists, and will be held from April 27th to June 24th, 2023. The Home Show features a wide range of homewares and artwork, including hand-crafted pillows, woven blankets, ceramics, wood sculptures, dishes, linens and framed work. The exhibition highlights the importance of the home as a space of creativity, comfort, and connection, and showcases the incredible range of talent and skill present in Creative Growth's artist community. The opening night of the exhibition on April 27th promises to be a special evening, filled with stunning artwork and an opportunity to meet the artists and learn more about the creative process behind their work.
"Creative Growth's Home Show is a testament to the expansive talent and creativity of our artists, and a celebration of their unique contributions to the art world," said Creative Growth Executive Director, Ginger Shulick Porcella. "Through their artwork, our artists showcase the power of community and the transformative role that art plays in our homes and lives.”
Don't miss your chance to experience the magic of Creative Growth's Home Show. The exhibition runs from April 27th to June 24th, and is free and open to the public. For more information about Creative Growth Art Center and the Home Show, please visit www.creativegrowth.org.
Opening: Thursday, April 27th with an opening reception from 5 – 8 p.m.
DOCENT-LED TOUR
Creative Growth is offering docent-led tours of their new exhibition: The Home Show. This tour is primarily for Blind and low vision visitors. The 45 minute tour will be offered Thursday, April 27 at 4pm and Saturday April 29 at 10:30am. Please contact Emma at emma@creativegrowth.org if you’d like to attend or for questions and concerns.
Public gallery hours:
By appointment: Tuesday – Friday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
For press inquiries and additional information:
Media Contact:
Ibby Sasso
ibby@creativegrowth.org
Gallery Contact:
Nadia Ghani
nadia@creativegrowth.org
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