North Pole Studio

Mission

North Pole Studio supports careers in the arts, and exists to increase opportunities for artists with autism and intellectual / developmental disabilities to thrive as active members of the arts community. We foster self-determination and facilitate meaningful connections through total engagement in the arts.

Bottom Line for Portland

We believe that a collective understanding of diverse human experiences is foundational to a vibrant and whole community. North Pole Studio joins a nationwide movement of progressive art studios working to increase visibility and representation of artists with disabilities. 

Quote

“What I want people to know through my art is that I'm alive, I'm real, I'm here.” - O.S., artist

"North Pole Studio is a safe place for artists with different communication methods who may not feel welcome elsewhere… as a caregiver, it's refreshing to not have to explain or justify… and instead be welcomed without question.” - T.D., caregiver

“This is who I am, this is what I like. It is because I have autism, that has led me to do this kind of work." - A.B., artist

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

North Pole Studio provides accessible studio space for a community of artists who share a serious interest in, and commitment to, creating and exhibiting art. The studio is a place where neurodiversity is valued, and where diverse perspectives are honored and recognized as a strength.

We are located in NW Marine Artworks, Portland’s largest collective of professional artist studios. In this space, we strive to bridge the access barriers that too often exist between artists with disabilities and the arts community.

The space was designed in close collaboration with founding artist, Davis Wohlford. Davis is autistic and the studio environment is thoughtfully organized to be supportive of diverse sensory needs. Our 1,150 square foot studio has individual work spaces, is quiet, small-scale, embedded with pictorial supports, and has easy access to outdoor space.

Incentives

Donate $20 or more to receive a $10 Gift Certificate to delicious and delightful Farina Bakery!

Double your impact! The first $5,000 donated will be matched by Dogtopia!

*11.02 - 12.02 only* Donate at any level and receive a complementary Meet & Greet for your furry friend at Dogtopia!

Business Partner(s)

Farina Bakery
Farina Bakery specializes in French macarons, delicious cookies and homestyle pastries. We’ve been supplying the SE Hawthorne neighborhood with sweets since 2014. Whether it be a treasured box of delicate, colorful macarons or a full dessert bar to serve 200 hungry guests, Farina Bakery is here to help you spread the joy!

Dogtopia Portland

At Dogtopia, we’re a unique breed. We love and care for your pup like they are our own. We realize that your dog is a furry member of your family and they deserve the highest level of care. The Dogtopia Foundation shares North Pole Studio's commitment to supporting adults with autism lead self-determined careers by providing accessible and supported employment opportunities within their daycare centers. 

Unitus Community Credit Union

Driven by one of the principles that credit unions were founded upon “people helping people”, giving back has been at the heart of Unitus since our founding in 1937. We believe in doing the right thing for our employees, members, and local communities.