The pieces in this exhibition represent a cross-section of Make Studio’s 35+ member artists. Each artist works with their own style, subject matter and approach to materials according to their individual interests and audience. Make Studio, founded in 2010 in Baltimore, MD, aims to empower artists with disabilities to grow as professionals with visibility and voice in their communities.

The title of this exhibition, “I Define Who I Am,” was one of several statements generated collaboratively by artists for use in Make Studio’s Disability Pride Fest (July 2023). Artists worked together to transform the statements into visual banners that became part of a mini-parade and performance at the festival.

Tyrone Weedon, who selected the title for this show, speaks to the power of choice in his artwork: “I’m proud about making art of people, celebrities and sometimes superheroes or things that really impacted [my] childhood…and current social events that are going on in the world. You can speak out about that through art. Sometimes you have to break down art barriers and create things your way.”

ABOUT MAKE STUDIO

Make Studio is a 501(c)3 community-based arts organization in Baltimore, MD, envisioning a world of acceptance and inclusion where art opens doors for everyone. Make Studio empowers artists with disabilities to grow as professionals with visibility and voice in their communities. We create opportunities for everyone to connect through art.

Our program for artists follows the progressive art studio model, originated by Elias Katz and Florence Ludins-Katz. A progressive studio is a fine art studio environment where adults with disabilities can pursue and maintain lives or careers as artists. We are the only one in the Baltimore metro area.