Celebrating a Decade of Inclusivity: VisAbility Art Lab's 10-Year Journey

The Metropolitan Center for the Visual Arts (VisArts) is gearing up to celebrate an important milestone: the 10th anniversary of its VisAbility Art Lab (VAL). This momentous occasion kicks off on January 30, 2026, and resonates deeply with a decade dedicated to fostering creativity, access, and community for neurodiverse artists.

Founded in 2015, VisAbility Art Lab was established with a mission to provide neurodiverse artists with a supportive environment where they can thrive. The studio program offers the necessary space, materials, and mentorship tailored to empower artists to pursue their own creative practices on their own terms. Over the years, VisAbility Art Lab has grown remarkably, expanding from just a single artist to a robust community of 45 thriving creatives, each participating in their artistic journeys.

Since its inception, artists of the VisAbility Art Lab have collectively sold over $73,000 worth of artwork, with nearly $15,000 in sales coming in the last year alone. This surge in sales signifies a growing recognition of these artists' talents and contributions to the art community. As Maven Kahn, a founding artist at VisAbility Art Lab, profoundly states, “When you’re neurodiverse, you're often stifled and told that you need to figure things out on your own. VisArts provides the platform for artists who want to pursue an art career by assisting them in becoming self-directed.”

The essence of the VisAbility Art Lab lies in its core values of autonomy and exploration. Artists are encouraged to choose their own mediums, develop distinct artistic identities, and create their personal schedules—all within a nurturing studio environment. This approach not only bolsters creative expression but also fosters both personal and professional growth among the participating artists.

As part of the 10th anniversary festivities, several exciting events are on the calendar. The celebration will run from January 30 to March 15, 2026, and includes a special conversation featuring VisAbility Art Lab artists on February 26. The culmination of the festivities will be a Closing Reception on March 15, where attendees can engage with the vibrant community and witness the incredible impact the lab has had on artists over the years.

VisArts remains steadfast in its commitment to expand access for neurodiverse artists, ensuring ongoing opportunities to create, connect, and thrive in their artistic journeys. The Opening Celebration is free to the public, and RSVPs are encouraged. Interested individuals can RSVP through the VisArts website.

For more information regarding the VisAbility Art Lab and its initiatives, you can visit VisArts Center. The remarkable journey of VisAbility Art Lab serves as an inspiring reminder that through community and support, every artist can flourish, regardless of their background or neurological differences. Together, as we celebrate this anniversary, we acknowledge the power of art as a unifying force and a medium for change.