CREATIVE GROWTH TURNS 50!
Welcome to the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the Creative Growth Art Center, a milestone that marks half a century of fostering artistic expression, inclusivity and community. Since our inception, we've been at the forefront of supporting artists with disabilities, providing a nurturing and joy-filled space for creativity to flourish. This year, we're commemorating our journey with special events, an unprecedented exhibition in partnership with SFMOMA, and stories of inspiration that have defined our legacy. Stay tuned as we share updates and highlights throughout the year, celebrating the spirit of creativity that has been the cornerstone of our mission for five decades.
FEATURED MUSEUM EXHIBITION
Creative Growth: The House That Art Built celebrates the fiftieth anniversary of the first organization in the United States dedicated to supporting artists with developmental disabilities. Today, more than 140 artists work at the organization, using every medium, from painting and drawing to ceramics, wood, fiber, digital media, and printmaking. This exhibition features a selection from the museum’s recent acquisition of work by Creative Growth artists — Joseph Alef, Camille Holvoet, Susan Janow, Dwight Mackintosh, John Martin, Dan Miller, Donald Mitchell, Judith Scott, William Scott, Ron Veasey, and Alice Wong — along with archival material that highlights the organization’s history. Together, the exhibition and historic acquisition present the boundless creativity and impact of these artists on cultural dialogues in the Bay Area and beyond.
On View at SFMOMA April 6–October 6, 2024
Witness the creation of Praise Frisco: Peace and Love in the City as documented by Creative Growth staff, highlighting artist William Scott’s optimistic vision of San Francisco through his painting. Follow the process as Scott’s imagined urban landscape takes form in his Bay Area Walls mural, providing a glimpse into his creative process.
OPEN NOW IN THE CREATIVE GROWTH GALLERY
CREATIVE GROWTH AT 50: A VISUAL HISTORY
Join us in celebrating Creative Growth's 50th Anniversary Exhibition, a visual journey through five decades of fostering artistic expression, inclusivity, and community. Curated by Director Emeritus Tom di Maria, this exhibition highlights the evolution of the center by showcasing works from our historic artists.
Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant creativity that have made Creative Growth a cornerstone of the arts community.
OPENING FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2024:
Member Preview - 5-6pm
Public Opening - 6-8pm
GALLERY HOURS: WED - SAT, 10-4PM
DESCRIPTIVE TOUR
Creative Growth will host a highly descriptive tour of “50 Years of Creative Growth” on Saturday October 12, 1-2pm. This tour is especially offered to Blind and low vision visitors and visitors who benefit from a calmer, guided experience. There will be ample opportunities to feel ceramics, wood sculptures, and more. For inquiries, contact Emma Peyton at emma@creativegrowth.org or call 650-399-5622. The Creative Growth Gallery is located at 355 24th Street in downtown Oakland and is a 10 minute stroll from the 19th BART stop.
Creative Growth Anthem Video produced by John McNeil Studios. Narrated by Creative Growth artist William Scott.
