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BE OPEN Unveils the Winners of Art Limitless

On January 5, 2026, BE OPEN Art proudly announced the winners of its inaugural Art Limitless competition, a project dedicated to celebrating inclusivity in the art world. This initiative aimed to highlight the talents of artists with disabilities and showcase the positive impact of creativity on personal and societal levels.

A Commitment to Inclusion

The Art Limitless project, launched in 2025 by BE OPEN Art, centered around promoting inclusivity in the arts. Throughout the competition from May to October 2025, a diverse panel of experts sought out and selected artworks that exemplified the spirit of creativity among artists with disabilities. Each month, these selected works were featured in an online gallery, allowing the public to engage in voting for their favorite pieces.

As part of the selection process, the art community was invited not only to appreciate the creativity displayed but to participate in a meaningful dialogue about the role of inclusivity in artistic expression. The platform aimed to elevate voices that have historically been marginalized in the art scene, thereby fostering a greater understanding of the power of inclusion.

Celebrating the Winners

The Art Limitless competition culminated in the selection of exceptional winners, who showcased powerful narratives through their art. The main award of €1,000 went to Ash Milne, a multidisciplinary artist celebrated for their vibrant paintings that challenge societal norms and advocate for the visibility of marginalized experiences. Their work revolves around themes of identity, self-acceptance, and joy within the queer community. Milne is currently studying visual and creative arts at Sheridan College, set to graduate in 2025.

In addition to the main award, the Founder's Choice Award of €500 was bestowed upon Fotini Michalidi, a visual artist and curator from Cyprus. Her interdisciplinary practice encompasses painting, installation, and collaborative projects that delve into memory, identity, and embodiment. As an artist with a disability and an advocate for greater inclusion in the arts, Michalidi challenges societal perceptions of disability through her work. She is also a board member of the Cypriot Myopathy Association, using her platform to promote awareness and inclusion.

Another noteworthy mention comes from Alexis Neumann, an American artist and academic, who received a grant of €300 for her engaging multimedia installations that explore the intersections of disability studies, theology, and intersectionality. Drawing from her lived experiences with invisible illnesses, Neumann's work navigates themes of interconnectedness, resilience, and complexity.

Insights from BE OPEN’s Founder

Elena Baturina, the founder of BE OPEN, expressed her enthusiasm for the project’s impact, stating: "As an important artistic tool, inclusive arts can help individuals realize their creative potentials, empower disabled individuals to advocate for themselves, raise awareness, foster empathy, improve communication, and inspire positive change. Supporting inclusive artists means offering fresh perspectives that challenge societal norms. We hope these grants will allow artists to continue dreaming, creating, and following their passions while engaging the public in meaningful and necessary dialogues."

Looking Ahead to Sustainable Art

BE OPEN continues its commitment to exploring the theme of sustainable art practices into 2026. The Art Limitless initiative marks a significant step towards a more inclusive and sustainable future in the arts, showcasing the essential role that diverse voices play in enriching cultural conversations.

In conclusion, Art Limitless stands as a testament to the power of creativity in fostering inclusivity and encouraging a broader understanding of diversity within the arts. As BE OPEN looks forward to future projects aimed at sustainability, the ongoing conversation about inclusivity will remain at the forefront of its mission.