11/17/2025
Art From Within is a studio art program held here at the West Edge Factory for adults with disabilities.
For three years, it has been a place where participants come together to create art—and community—in a professional studio environment. Every week, our artists show up with passion, curiosity, and a deep love of expression. And every year, their dedication culminates in a powerful exhibition that celebrates their creativity and their growth.
You are invited to this year’s Art From Within Exhibition on Thursday, December 4, from 6–8 PM. We hope you’ll join us to celebrate the artists and the work they’ve created throughout the year. This is always such a proud moment for us and all of our artists.
This program has grown every single year. We’ve welcomed new artists, retained ALL of our original participants, and built a true creative home. Today, we even have a waitlist of students eager to join.
But here is the truth:
We cannot grow—or even sustain—the program—without community support.
Art From Within runs on heart, commitment, and sheer determination. Our lead teaching artist, Barb Lavalley-Benton, has even continued teaching without pay during times when funding fell through.
Your donation directly supports:
• Paying our teaching staff
• Purchasing essential art supplies
• Providing stipends for artists who “graduate” into mentorship roles
• Expanding the program so we can welcome new artists in 2026
These individual artist spotlights feature real people who thrive because Art From Within exists. Their joy and growth are why we are asking.
If you are able, please donate, and please share!!
Your support keeps Art From Within alive, growing, and accessible to the artists who need it most.
Thank you for believing in inclusive, community-centered art 💓
Donate directly to the program here: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/art-from-within
Learn more about Art From Within here: https://westedgefactory.com/artfromwithin/
