North Pole Studio

Mission

North Pole Studio supports careers in the arts, and exists to increase opportunities for artists with autism & intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) 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

Artists with autism and I/DD are underserved and underrepresented in the arts across educational, recreational, and professional spaces. North Pole Studio exists to ensure this population of artists is engaged, represented, and visible in the local and national arts community. Art is for everyone, and our programs provide accessible, inclusive opportunities for artists to create, connect, and thrive.

In 2024, North Pole Studio expanded our offerings, providing 275 artist opportunities across workshops, classes and our professional studio program. This past year, members of NPS’s professional artist cohort exhibited work in 20 shows and art fairs across 6 cities, were commissioned to create original works for Trimet, OnPoint Community Credit Union, and the KUNI Foundation, and had their artwork licensed for professional use by local organizations such as Scout Books and Lionheart Coffee Company, earning $65,000 in individual artist income. Your support helps us to bring these meaningful professional opportunities to more artists throughout the Portland Metro Area and beyond. 

Quote

“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." - Austin Brague, 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

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

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

North Pole Studio was co-founded by Davis Wohlford, a prolific, self-taught autistic artist. We provide 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, artists with autism and I/DD are included and engaged members of the professional arts community. The studio space and culture is thoughtfully organized to be supportive of diverse sensory needs.

Incentives

The first 40 donors to give at a level of $25 or above will receive a $10 digital gift card to Fried Egg I'm in Love, maker of Portland's best breakfast sandwiches!

The generous folks at Unitus Community Credit Union (Multnomah Village and Salem Branches) will match all gifts of $50 or above up to $1000!  

Partner(s)

Fried Egg I'm in Love

Fried Egg I'm In Love makes Portland's best breakfast sandwiches; we also pride ourselves on providing fantastic customer service, and a 100% uniquely Portland experience. 

Unitus Community Credit Union

Unitus CCU is invested in the Northwest, and are passionate about providing inspirational service to the communities they serve. 

Non-Profit Partners

North Pole Studio believes in the power of collectivity and is proud to help amplify the work of dedicated organizations serving Portland's creative communities.

Caldera Arts

Caldera’s mission is to inspire and support youth from underserved rural and urban communities by awakening the potential of their creative voice. We believe that when youth are given access to the explosive power of creativity, they can change their world and even the world at large.

The Shadow Project

The mission of The Shadow Project is to make school more accessible and engaging for K-8 students with learning challenges like dyslexia, ADHD, autism and trauma. We envision an education system that normalizes and celebrates learning differences, and supports every student to thrive in school.