Bridging Continents Through Art: A Collaborative Portrait Project

Art has the unique ability to dissolve boundaries, and Get to Know Each Other Through Art is a perfect example of this power. This collaborative portrait project unites two organizations dedicated to nurturing artists with intellectual disabilities and neurodiversity: Ateljé Inuti in Stockholm, Sweden, and Creative Growth Art Center in Oakland, California. Together, they’ve created a compelling collection of portraits that celebrate shared perspectives and global artistic connection.

The project began as an exchange of photographs and personal statements, inviting artists from both studios to create portraits of one another. These works transcend geography, blending the distinct creative styles of two communities thousands of miles apart. From vibrant colors to intricate details, each portrait tells a story—not just of the subject, but of the artist's interpretation, empathy, and connection.

Ateljé Inuti is well-known for providing an inclusive space for artists with neurodiversity to flourish. Likewise, Creative Growth has spent championing the talents of disabled artists, making this collaboration a natural pairing. Together, they’ve crafted a project that embodies the spirit of artistic exchange, showing how creativity can foster understanding and connection.

The exhibition will debut at Creative Growth Art Center from February 14 to April 19, 2025, before traveling to Sweden. It will be on view at Ateljé Inuti from May 22 to June 13, 2025, and continue its journey at Malmö Konsthall’s Studio Syd from September 13, 2026, to January 18, 2027—expanding its mission to inspire through cross-cultural artistic dialogue.

Get to Know Each Other Through Art is more than an exhibition—it reminds us that art, in all its forms, can create bridges between people, cultures, and continents. Don’t miss this extraordinary showcase of creativity and connection.

Portrait of Mattias Johansson by Zar Shepard

Illustrative drawing of Matthias wearing a red shirt, blue eyes, glasses, blonde hair, beard and mustache. 

Portrait of Buster Hardy Hollingworth by John Martin

A drawing of Buster with blue eyes, a green shirt, red pants and a yellow cap with a car on it. 

Portrait of Jenny Ekström

Colorful painting of Jenny with red hair, brown glasses, a striped top and a necklace.

Portrait of Carl Bernalt by Alice Wong

Printout of a photo of Carl that’s been drawn on to include hair and a beard and signed in cursive by Alice Wong. 

Portrait of Karen Ridge by Camilla Holmqvist

Handpainted watercolor portrait of Karen, wearing purple glasses, a purple jacket and a large brown bag.

Portrait of Therese Vendela Persson by Sherrie Aradanas

Watercolor drawing/painting of Therese wearing a red shirt with blue vest on a purple background.