A collage of black and white filmstrip photos from approximately 1976, depicting various scenes of artists at work in a studio. The images show individuals and groups engaged in creative activities such as drawing, painting, and sculpting.

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.


UPCOMING CREATIVE GROWTH GALLERY EXHIBITION

THE HOME SHOW

Creative Growth is excited to announce the return of our beloved annual Home Show, which will open on Friday, May 17th, 2024, marking our 50th anniversary. This year, the renowned interior designer Noz Nozawa will curate the exhibition, featuring an expansive collection of homewares and artworks, including hand-crafted pillows and ceramics. These unique items will be on display and available for purchase, transforming our gallery into a sanctuary of comfort and creativity that highlights the exceptional talents of Creative Growth artists.

In celebration of this milestone year, we are thrilled to highlight our partnerships. Together with the Oakland Puzzle Company, we have created a special puzzle featuring artwork by our very own Fruitful Artist. We are also proud to continue our collaboration with Jolie Laide Wines, who annually celebrate their unique vintages by featuring new artwork on their labels.

OPENING FRIDAY, MAY 17TH, 2024:

Member Preview - 5-6pm

Public Opening - 6-8pm

GALLERY HOURS: WED - SAT, 10-4PM

Dive into a captivating Spotify playlist curated by our very own John Martin. John's unique selection bridges the soulful melodies of his Southern heritage with the dynamic rhythms of his present life in Oakland, California. As a distinguished artist at Creative Growth, John's work is as vibrant and evocative as the melodies that fill his ears while he works. This is not just a playlist; it's a window into the rhythm of John's creative process.


Footage of Creative Growth, Creativity Explored and NIAD artists at work in their respective studios courtesy of OMCA




“beyond i wanna go” film release

Lulu Sotelo, Elizabeth Rengell, and William Scott in BEYOND i wanna go