Art for All
Our mission is to empower adults with disabilities to discover and reach their full potential through the arts.
We are a non-profit, fully-equipped art studio and gallery in downtown Asheville, NC. Our team of professional artists and seasoned caregivers support and encourage our artists to reflect on their personal story as inspiration for their creative work.
What We Believe
Art is a universal language
We believe that every individual possesses an innate creative spirit, and art is the most powerful tool for self-discovery and meaningful connection.
Potential is limitless
We believe that ability is not defined by diagnosis. Every artist in our studio has the right to access opportunities and reach their unique, full, and boundless potential.
Community is essential
We believe in providing a place where artists feel safe, supported, and valued, fostering genuine friendships and a deep sense of belonging for everyone who walks through our doors.
Joy is a necessary ingredient
We believe that the process of making art should be fun, playful, and inspiring, creating a lively atmosphere where laughter and creativity go hand-in-hand.
Expression changes
lives
We believe that when a person finds their voice through art, it creates a ripple effect of confidence, independence, and empowerment that changes not just their life, but the entire community.
20 Years of Art and Heart
On June 1, 2005, with just enough donor dollars and community support in hand, we flung open the doors to Open Hearts Art Center. We had no idea that it was the start of something bigger than we dared dream.
We celebrate our first 20 years of changing lives through art with endless gratitude for each and every person behind our growth and success.
Most of all, we thank our past and present artists for reminding us each day that what we do matters greatly. Your art inspires us, your laughter is music to our ears, and your accomplishments never cease to amaze us.
2004
Three women join forces with a vision to create a program that would combine their love for art with the desire to make a difference in the lives of disabled adults.
Open Hearts becomes incorporated and receives 501 (c)(3) nonprofit status
Open Hearts Through the Years
2005
Focus on Fundraising, in-kind donations, and community support
Receives Medicaid provider identification number to provide billable services though the Division of Medical Assistance
June 1 - opens doors!
2009
Receives first national accreditation from CARF
2010
Moves to new location in West Asheville
2012
Receives re-accreditation from CARF
2014
Launches Boundless Art Program
2015
Receives re-accreditation from CARF
2017
Moves into current location on
Coxe Avenue in the South Slope
neighborhood of downtown Asheville
2018
Receives re-accreditation from CARF
2019
We buy our very own Boundless Arts bus!
2020
Covid-19 Pandemic shut down - quickly began offering telehealth/virtual classes for artists and staff. Our team visited artists at their homes to continue providing care.
2021
Receives re-accreditation from CARF
2024
Receives re-accreditation from CARF
2025
Major Grant from ArtsAVL -
Arts Builds Communities
Joined Asheville/Buncombe
County Chamber of Commerce
Receives first-ever "Integration Innovation
Award" from Vaya Health citing rapid
response to Pandemic shut down, became
model for others.
2025
June 1 – We celebrate our 20 Year Anniversary!
20 Years
Meet the Amazing Open Hearts Artists!
Our Team
Get to know the incredible individuals who make magic happen! Meet the awesome humans who provide the hands-on support and creative high-fives that help every Open Hearts artist shine!
Our Programs
We offer a variety of adaptable programs designed to meet every artist where they are, ensuring we provide the flexible support, resources, and creative disciplines necessary for each individual to thrive.
Our Partners
Our work is made possible by a powerful community of champions! See the local businesses, trusted foundations, and community partners that stand behind our mission to support art for all.