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Celebrating Inclusivity in Arts: BE OPEN's Art Limitless Winners

In a remarkable initiative aimed at celebrating inclusivity in the artistic community, BE OPEN has proudly announced the winners of its inaugural Art Limitless competition. Launched in 2025, this unique program operates within the BE OPEN Art online gallery and is designed to embrace and promote the extraordinary talents of artists with disabilities, demonstrating the uplifting power of creativity and inclusivity.

The Art Limitless project showcased an impressive array of artwork from artists who bring diverse perspectives to the forefront. From May to October 2025, the BE OPEN expert community diligently curated and selected these artworks, employing a robust public voting system to determine the most distinguished pieces. The initiative not only recognized talent but fostered engagement, allowing the public to be an integral part of the decision-making process.

Meet the Winners

Among the most notable achievements, Ash Milne emerged as the Artist of the Month, claiming a €1000 grant for their multidisciplinary work that revolves around themes of identity, self-acceptance, and queer joy. Ash's high-contrast paintings challenge societal norms and aim to amplify the visibility of marginalized bodies and experiences. Their impactful creations contribute to a larger conversation surrounding inclusivity in the art world.

The Founder's choice grant of €500 was awarded to Fotini Michalidi, a talented visual artist and curator from Cyprus. Fotini's multidisciplinary practice dives into the concepts of embodiment, memory, and identity, utilizing painting and collaborative projects to convey her message. As a disabled artist and a board member of the Cyprus Myopathy Association, Fotini leverages her experiences to confront societal perceptions of disability, using her platform to advocate for greater inclusivity within the arts.

Additionally, another grant of €300 went to Alexis Neumann. This US-based artist is also a scholar and curator whose works explore the intersections of Disability Studies, Theology, and Intersectionality. Alexis combines their lived experiences with multiple invisible illnesses to highlight themes of interconnectedness, resilience, and the complexities surrounding disability.

The Vision Behind Art Limitless

Elena Baturina, the founder of BE OPEN, expressed her enthusiasm regarding the competition's outcomes. She stated, “As an important artistic tool, inclusive arts can help people realize their creative potential, enable self-advocacy among individuals with disabilities, and foster awareness and empathy in society.” Baturina emphasized that supporting inclusive artists not only enriches the art community but also invites new perspectives that can inspire meaningful dialogues within society.

Looking ahead, BE OPEN plans to further explore the theme of sustainable art in 2026, continuing the conversation around responsible and inclusive practices in the creative sector. The organization aims to delve deeper into sustainable art-making, fostering an environment where artists can thrive and engage audiences with their unique narratives.

Conclusion

The Art Limitless competition stands as a testament to the power of art in bridging gaps and fostering understanding across diverse communities. By championing inclusivity and giving a platform to underrepresented voices, BE OPEN is not just creating an art gallery but cultivating a community of artists who dare to break boundaries and inspire change through their creativity. As these artists continue their journeys, they carry with them the hopes and aspirations of many, shining a light on the transformative power of art in today’s world.