I've been volunteering at Creative Clay for 15 years, and it has been more rewarding and life-enriching than I could have ever imagined. It carries out its motto – equality through art – in every program, every community partnership, and in every experience it offers its clients. It is transformative. It is joyful. It is an incredibly well-run, professional organization fostering creative expression and support for those with disabilities, and a stunning, vibrant arts environment for visitors.
Creative Clay's mission and purpose (and execution) are great. I was a community appreciator (I went there and bought art) and did some volunteer work with Creative clay for a few years before joining the board. As a board member, I have the opportunity to see things from a different angle and have more contact with the member artists which just makes me appreciate them even more. To see the smiles and laughter that happen when an artist knows that he or she is respected and appreciated is beyond fulfilling.
Creative Clay is an amazing place in the Grand Central District of St. Petersburg. It is open to the public and consists of five large working studios, the Good Folk Gallery, Creative Thrift art supply store, and a large outdoor event space. The welcoming environment caters toward artists with disabilities who are provided with the support and advocacy to be working artists who are fully included in the St. Petersburg arts community. The many partnerships with local galleries, museums, businesses, and nonprofits create a vast array of opportunities for inclusive experiences for Creative Clay’s member artists. Explore Creative Clay’s website and extensive social media platforms, where you can learn more about the member artists, view their artwork and performances, and find out when the next Creative Clay event is happening.