Connecticut's Disability Arts Organization Empowering Artists Through Creativity, Inclusion, and Community

At Inspire Arts CT, we believe creativity belongs to everyone.

As a Connecticut-based disability arts organization, Inspire Arts CT provides opportunities for artists living with disabilities, acquired brain injuries, and other neurological conditions to explore their creativity, develop their artistic talents, and share their work with the wider community.

Our mission extends beyond creating artwork. We are committed to building an inclusive community where every artist is recognized for their strengths, celebrated for their individuality, and empowered to express themselves through creative exploration.

Whether someone is discovering art for the first time or returning to a lifelong passion, Inspire Arts CT provides a welcoming environment where creativity becomes a pathway to confidence, connection, and purpose.

A painted wooden boat resting on a sandy shore with blue water in the background.
“Before MJ became part of this program, he was becoming a recluse, even to his family.  His first few weeks in the program were tough for both of us. Change is hard for him, but he persevered and after seeing the different styles of art, he could do, he looked forward to going. He was more engaged in conversation about each of his daily activities and he has even tried to get me to do some of the painting he has been shown. MJ’s participation takes time and effort but is well worth it leading to his independence.  My fear for his future is slowly dissipating as he progresses forward.”
— Family Member of Artist
Despite the paralysis on her right side, Grace discovered a new passion for art, using her left hand to create meaningful and expressive pieces.  She is determined to live life to the fullest. This art program has had a profoundly positive impact on Grace’s life, keeping her active and mentally engaged, much like she was before her illness. Her journey through art has become a vital part of her recovery, inspiring not only to her family but also those who view her work.
— Family Member of Artist

Our Staff

More Than an Art Program

For many individuals living with disabilities, meaningful opportunities to participate in creative activities can be life-changing.

Creative expression provides opportunities to:

  • Build confidence

  • Strengthen independence

  • Develop new skills

  • Connect with others

  • Explore personal interests

  • Participate in the community

  • Celebrate individual strengths

At Inspire Arts CT, we believe every artist deserves the opportunity to create, learn, and grow in an environment that values ability over limitation.

Our studios are spaces where imagination is encouraged, friendships are formed, and creativity is celebrated every day.

Creativity Builds Community

Art has the power to bring people together.

Through exhibitions, collaborative projects, community partnerships, and opportunities to share artwork with the public, Inspire Arts CT helps foster meaningful connections between artists, families, supporters, and the broader Connecticut community.

Our artists are not defined by their disabilities.

They are recognized for their creativity, talent, and contributions.

By celebrating their work, we help challenge misconceptions about disability while demonstrating the extraordinary creativity that exists throughout our communities.

Supporting Artists Living With Brain Injuries and Disabilities

Inspire Arts CT was established by The Supported Living Group to provide artists living with disabilities—including many individuals recovering from acquired brain injuries—with opportunities to participate in meaningful creative experiences.

Recovery and personal growth extend far beyond medical care.

Creative expression can help individuals rediscover confidence, reconnect with their communities, develop new interests, and express experiences that may be difficult to communicate through words alone.

Every brushstroke, sculpture, piece of jewelry, textile, or woodworking project reflects more than artistic talent—it reflects resilience, determination, and individuality.

A Collaborative Creative Community

Our artists work together in welcoming, fully equipped studio spaces located in Avon and Bethany, Connecticut. Inspire Arts encourages collaboration while celebrating each individual's unique artistic style and creative journey.

Artists explore a wide variety of creative mediums, including:

  • Painting

  • Drawing

  • Mixed media

  • Sculpture

  • Jewelry

  • Textiles

  • Embroidery

  • Woodworking

  • Collage

  • Seasonal collaborative projects

Some works are inspired by personal experiences, while others reflect imagination, curiosity, or a desire to explore something new.

Every creation tells a unique story.

Four people seated around a table working with egg cartons, scissors, glue, paper, and a large potted plant in the center. They appear to be engaged in a craft activity in an art room.

Inspire Arts offers monthly support group meetings in partnership with the Brain Injury Alliance of Connecticut. Whether it’s expressing emotions through art, connecting with others who understand the journey, or simply enjoying a supportive space, these gatherings are a vital part of fostering healing, resilience, and joy.

We meet every 3rd Wednesday of the month from 1-2pm, at the Avon and Bethany locations.

Click here to see a few of our past projects!

Supporting the Whole Person

At Inspire Arts CT, we recognize that creativity supports much more than artistic development.

Creative participation can promote:

  • Confidence

  • Community inclusion

  • Personal growth

  • Emotional well-being

  • Meaningful daily routines

  • Social connection

  • Lifelong learning

We believe that supporting artists means supporting the whole person.

Building Partnerships That Strengthen Communities

Inspire Arts CT proudly collaborates with organizations that share our commitment to disability inclusion, community participation, and creative opportunity.

These partnerships help expand opportunities for artists while strengthening awareness of the important role creativity plays in building healthier, more inclusive communities.

Join Our Creative Community

Whether you are an artist, family member, community partner, collector, volunteer, or simply someone who believes in the power of creativity, we invite you to become part of the Inspire Arts CT community.

Together, we can continue creating opportunities where artists living with disabilities are celebrated not for the challenges they have faced, but for the creativity, resilience, and talent they share with the world.

Because everyone deserves the opportunity to create, connect, and inspire.

We offer multiple locations that serve and inspire the creative artists of New Haven, Fairfield, Hartford, and Litchfield Counties

Bethany, CT

Avon, CT

A community gathering in a room decorated with pink and red hearts and banners, with people sitting at a long table playing bingo, some talking and some focusing on the game. Items like bingo cards, chocolate, water bottles, and snacks are on the table.
Blue multi-story residential building with gabled roofs, surrounded by green lawn and trees in background, under a partly cloudy sky.

Avon, CT

People participating in a painting class in a room decorated with various artworks. Participants are seated around a table with canvases, paintbrushes, and paints, with an instructor standing at the front holding a paint palette, explaining a painting technique.
A brick and white building with a steep roof, large windows and a glass entrance, surrounded by trees, shrubs and a well-maintained garden with rocks.