Inclusive Clay: Building a Studio Program for Artists of All Abilities
An Invitation to Collaborate on a New Vision for Community and Creativity
🎯 What’s the Vision?
We’re creating a community clay program that brings together local working artists and artists supported by the California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) in a shared studio environment.
This will be more than a class—it’s a space for mentorship, creativity, skill-sharing, and mutual respect. The long-term goal is to offer inclusive opportunities for artistic growth, professional development, and connection between neurodiverse, disabled, and nondisabled artists.
🌱 Why Now?
Pottery studios can be powerful places of learning and belonging—but many are not accessible to everyone. This program aims to:
Offer DDS-supported artists access to studio resources and community
Give local artists meaningful mentorship opportunities, supported with care and structure
Explore how inclusive studio culture can benefit everyone—not just those receiving services
This isn’t about charity: it’s about creating a sustainable, shared creative culture.
👥 Who We’re Looking For
We’re in the very early stages and looking to build a small founding team of co-creators. You might be:
A working artist interested in mentorship, access, or inclusive practices
Someone with experience in DDS, disability services, or inclusive education
A community organizer, writer, or grant-seeker who wants to help build something with care
A parent, advocate, or supporter who sees the value in inclusive, creative spaces
You don’t need to have all the answers—we’re building this together.
🗓 What’s the Commitment?
Start with a casual info session or brainstorm (late August or early September)
Collaborate on a pilot program or event in 2025
Help shape the structure, roles, and possible funding opportunities
Commitment is flexible—we’re keeping it low-pressure and values-aligned
💌 Interested?
Reach out to Lindsay Langsdale at Linlangcreative@gmail.com or fill out this short interest form
Let’s build something beautiful—together.