STARability Foundation’s STAR Studio & Artisan Gifts is proud to partner with Newman Art Gallery to present a weeklong exhibition showcasing the inspiring artwork of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. During the exhibit, the gallery will display unique pieces created by STARability’s participants alongside their own, offering a glimpse into the powers of art.

Newman Art Gallery will host the STARability collection March 1 through 9 at its gallery located at 374 13th Ave. S. in Naples, with 100% of proceeds going directly to benefit the nonprofit. Additionally, 20% of all proceeds from the gallery’s permanent collection during the month of March will be donated to STARability.    

“Newman Art Gallery is thrilled to collaborate and showcase artwork created by the participants of STARability,” said gallery owner Nikki Newman. “We strongly believe that creating art and any art awareness improves mental health by reducing stress and anxiety, boosting self-esteem and helping people process emotions.”

To celebrate the organization’s emerging artists, the gallery will also host a special event from 4 to 6 p.m. on Friday, March 7 to highlight the exhibit and provide opportunities for guests to meet the artists and shop the fine works of the STARability participants and Newman Art Gallery. Guests will enjoy live music, drinks and light bites made by the STARability participants.

“We are thrilled to partner with Newman Art Gallery for this collection to help showcase the creativity and abilities of our STAR artists as they explore their past, present and future through art,” said Karen Govern, CEO of STARability Foundation. “All art pieces showcased in the exhibit were made in our STAR Connections, Trailblazer Academy and Jr. Trailblazer Academy art classes at our STAR Studio. Art has always been a valuable tool and meaningful way for our STARs to express their emotions and represent themselves. Having this opportunity from Newman Art Gallery to share their views with the community is a wonderful example of the inclusive community we are working to build for our STARs to shine.”

STARability is a regional leader in providing innovative, results-driven programs designed to accommodate the unique needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Southwest Florida. Their life-transforming work ensures families have access to programs, resources and an inclusive community that provide opportunities to lead a meaningful and productive life.

To learn more about STARability Foundation and the nonprofit’s Social Enterprise program, visit STARability.org.

About STARability Foundation’s STAR Studio & Artisan Gifts

STAR Studio & Artisan Gifts is an inclusive, joyful space where more than 75 participants of STARability Foundation come together to create through vocational training, paid employment and recreational art classes. All gifts for sale in the on-site boutique were crafted, illustrated and packaged entirely by these STAR artists and artisans of all abilities. With each artisan product, the STARs are expressing themselves, learning a special craft and developing valuable skills that translate to their time in the community, at home and in other workplaces. Their products are sold on-site in our artisan gift boutique, online, to a growing number of retailers and community partners, and at numerous community events. All proceeds benefit STARability’s life-transforming programs and services. To learn more, please visit STARability.org/star-studio-artisan-gifts.

About Newman Art Gallery

The Newman Art Gallery, located at 374 13th Ave. S. in the vibrant Third Street community, showcases the enduring legacy of David Newman. From structured compositions to whimsical abstracts, his art captures the intense beauty of the natural world, reflecting his bountiful joy for life, family, his country, the universe and God. For more information, visit newmanartgallery.com.