Artistry beyond barriers

Showcasing the brilliance of creators who see the world differently - where exceptional minds and expressive hearts turn ability into artistry. Shop the Collection
What Is Artists with Abilities?

What Is
Artists with Abilities?

Our mission is to provide accessible opportunities for children and adults who are twice exceptional to exhibit their artwork, express themselves, and achieve artistic excellence.
We focus on abilities, not disabilities.

At Artists with Abilities, each member receives expert instruction, space to create, and pathways to sell their art. Through mentorship, community, and inclusion, we break stereotypes and celebrate authentic expression.

Our Impact & Programs

  • Exhibitions &
    Markets

    Twice-annual exhibitions at High Point Market bring their work to a global design and interior audience.
  • Art Instruction & Workshops

    Regular classes, creative workshops, and skill development sessions.
  • Mentorship & Networking

    Pairing artists with mentors, curators, designers, and peer networks.
  • Sales & Revenue Opportunities

    Platforms to sell original work, limited editions, prints — an income channel.
  • Advocacy & Awareness

    Telling stories, engaging media, and educating audiences about inclusivity in art.

Meet the Artists

previous
Laura RiveraLaura RiveraLaura Rivera has never let cerebral palsy limit her creativity. Unable to use her hands, she has mastered the art of painting with her foot, turning obstacles into opportunities. She sells her original paintings online and finds immense joy in every completed piece. Beyond painting, Laura loves shopping, dancing, and cross-stitching, embracing life with determination and passion.
Maggie HinesMaggie HinesMaggie Hines is a twice-exceptional and imaginative artist with a passion for creating. She has always loved hands-on projects that allow her to connect with different materials. Whether it’s paper (which her mom often has to hide from the printer), paint, tape, boxes, or treasures from the recycling bin, Maggie finds endless possibilities for creativity. She enjoys watching YouTube, playing with American Girl dolls, cheering for the Special Olympics, and being a proud student at Westlawn School.
Tim BefusTim BefusTim Befus is a quiet and easygoing artist with a passion for creativity. He enjoys exploring various forms of art, including painting, drawing, photography, and pottery. One of the highlights of his artistic journey is collaborating with other artists and having the opportunity to showcase his work at The International Furniture Market. In his spare time, he loves to travel, read, and watch sports.
Mimi WaldrepMimi WaldrepMimi Waldrep lives in Pfafftown, NC, and has a passion for pottery, photography, and painting. A true sports enthusiast, she’s also an avid reader with a love for geography and travel. When she’s not exploring new interests, she enjoys spending time with her beloved dog, Boone.
Isabella ToledoIsabella ToledoIsabella Toledo is a bright and creative young woman with a passion for painting, especially water-themed scenes and flowers. She constantly challenges herself with new subjects that expand her artistic horizons. A devoted sister and daughter, she also adores her family’s dogs. Beyond her love for art, Isabella has a keen eye for fashion, always expressing herself through style.
Trip CollinsTrip CollinsTrip Collins is a passionate artist who enjoys a variety of creative pursuits, including pottery, drawing, painting, and sewing. His talents shine through themed artwork and depictions of his favorite characters. He loves spending hours with a needle and thread, crafting imaginative costumes and cloth figures. In his spare time, Trip enjoys horseback riding, watching TV, and exploring movies.
Layla SpaughLayla SpaughLayla Spaugh is a sweet and sassy young artist with a big heart and a love for adventure. She adores her brothers and sister and enjoys all things outdoors. A creative spirit, she loves drawing, painting, coloring, and making diamond art, as well as playing video games with friends and family. Her love for animals, especially her dog Milo, is unmatched. A natural leader and eager helper, Layla’s vibrant personality makes her impossible not to love.
Jonathan LindsayJonathan LindsayJonathan Lindsay is a gifted artist who primarily expresses himself through folk and Americana art. He enjoys painting furniture and creating portraits of his family and friends, often incorporating his favorite color, red, into his work. Beyond art, Johnathan loves shopping and cooking. He also enjoys listening to music, dancing, gardening, watching basketball, and playing games, especially Scrabble and Uno, where he is a true master.
Lisa VanhoyLisa VanhoyLisa Vanhoy has been creating art her entire life, with a passion for painting and drawing. She enjoys capturing landscapes and still life, often incorporating her favorite color, red, into her work. In her spare time, she loves watching movies, solving puzzle books, and staying active through exercise.
Vivian KianiVivian KianiVivian Kiani is a creative and energetic young artist from Raleigh. She is a proud participant in Artists with Abilities, cherishing the opportunity to create art within this welcoming community. Beyond her artistic pursuits, Vivian enjoys gymnastics and playing both the piano and clarinet.
Adam LefevreAdam LefevreAdam Lefevre is known for his vibrant use of color and striking abstract paintings. A talented artist across multiple mediums, he excels in painting, pottery, and jewelry making. His artistic skills are remarkable, especially as he faces the challenges of Sturge-Weber Syndrome, Myoclonus Dystonia, and visual impairment. Despite these obstacles, Adam’s creativity knows no bounds.
Stephen MazzeoStephen MazzeoStephen Mazzeo is a young man with a vivid imagination and a passion for creativity. While he enjoys all forms of art, painting is his favorite. He often incorporates gold as a primary color, adding a distinctive richness to his work. His mind is filled with fantastical beasts and characters, which he brings to life on canvas with remarkable detail and originality.
Remi VizcainoRemi VizcainoRemi Vizcaino is an adventurous artist with a big heart and an even bigger imagination. Whether he’s skateboarding, catching waves at the beach, or spending time with his animals, he’s always embracing life to the fullest. With a contagious smile and a curious spirit, Remi loves dreaming up new projects and rocking out to his favorite tunes, inspiring everyone around him.
Blake HenkleBlake HenkleBlake Henkle has been a part of the Creative Arts Program at The Arc of High Point since its inception. He enjoys painting with bright colors, with a special fondness for animals. An active participant in the Special Olympics, Blake also loves spending time at the lake. His dedication to giving back is evident in his weekly volunteer work, and he stays active by working out at Planet Fitness.
Serenity BurtonSerenity BurtonSerenity Burton is a warm and friendly person who loves connecting with others and making new friends. She has a passion for art, dancing, music, and singing. As a dedicated member of the Special Olympics Cheer Squad, the “Forsyth Cats,” she brings enthusiasm and energy to every performance.
Corey WilliamsCorey WilliamsCorey Williams has been passionate about creating art for many years, with a love for painting animals, flowers, and abstract pieces. An avid reader, she has an extensive book collection, including fiction, mysteries like Harry Potter, and photography books on travel and geography. Corey also has a talent for puzzles and a growing collection to show for it. She enjoys watching movies, especially comedies, romances, and animal films.
Darren BrownDarren BrownDarren Brown has been a dedicated participant at the Enrichment Center for over 20 years. A talented artist, he paints and creates beautiful pottery, but his true passion lies in digital photography. When he’s not working on his art, Darren enjoys attending church, shopping for clothes, listening to music, and reminiscing about his beloved dog and best friend, Bandit. A proud Special Olympics athlete, he competes in equestrian, cheerleading, and swimming.
Kenzie SmeetonKenzie SmeetonKenzie Smeeton is a talented artist from Advance, NC, known for her kindness, creativity, and keen attention to detail. Her artistic passions span digital design, animation, painting, drawing, gaming, and more. Born with a natural love for art, she constantly hones her skills and explores new creative avenues. Her favorite mediums include painting, drawing, and pottery, with a particular focus on animated characters, inspired by her deep fascination with the world of animation.
next
Scout Garner
“Art has given me confidence to share who I am.” Scout Garner
Artists With Abilities / Video

Supporters

  • Phillips Collection
  • Visit High Point
  • H P X D
  • A Special Blend
  • Cohab Space
  • The Arc High Point

Join the Movement

The power of this initiative is magnified by community support.
Whether you purchase a piece, tell the story, or offer a donation, you help these artists thrive.
GoFundMe Contribute to our mission