Art is many things for many people. For some, art is a way to make a statement; for others, it’s a form of therapy. The flexibility of art makes it accessible to all, whether you approach it as a creator or as an observer. Put simply, art is an opportunity—one that varies for each person it touches. Because of the endless possibilities for its applications, we at ArtLifting have decided to adopt art as an avenue for change and a platform for self-empowerment among artists who are living with homelessness or physical and mental disabilities.
ArtLifting artists use our online marketplace as a platform to secure income through the sale of prints, posters, and products utilizing their artworks as inspiration, not to mention original pieces that can sell for hundreds or thousands of dollars. More importantly than the income, however, is the positivity that comes from the celebration of their work. Artist Scott Benner, who has lived with homelessness in the past, explains what having an audience means to him:
“It makes you proud. It’s an awesome feeling to know that you’ve connected with somebody on that level—that they like the artwork enough that they want it to be a part of their ‘every day.’ That means a lot to me, it definitely does.”
For Leisa Hammett, ArtLifting helps her daughter Grace Goad, who lives with moderately severe autism, afford art supplies while highlighting her accomplishments.
“There’s something special, and that’s something that I think is so important about art—it shows what can be done; it shows the exceptionality. It puts the focus on the beauty, on what the person can create.”
The wonderful thing about art is that it invites us to find beauty, skill, and importance for ourselves. For each ArtLifting artist, these works are incredibly important. They serve as an invitation for interaction, communication, and understanding—as a way to combat stigmas and share talent with the world.
Read their stories. Connect with their journeys. Get inspired by their creations.
Join the movement. Buy art that counts.
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Explore the possibilities online by visiting our collection and artists’ pages, and subscribe to our newsletter for future blog posts, content, and updates.