OUR MISSION

The Global Art Initiative's mission is to break the poverty cycle for disabled artists in Third World Countries. We are a non-profit focused on education and the sale of original artwork to benefit handicapped artists globally. We engage children and adults in art projects geared to developing an understanding of disability and the awareness that artistic ability is not limited by a disability.  Our hope is that through their experience with the Global Art Initiative, participants will take compassionate action, becoming donors in the larger shared humanitarian project.

Mission Statement

The Global Art Initiative is a champion for disabled artists worldwide, and our mission is to raise the status of the disabled in Third World countries by selling the artwork of disabled artists who use their mouth and feet to paint and struggle to survive.  The overall strategy is to bring honor to Third World countries through art and sports for the disabled. 

We supply materials and provide services to disabled artsts in Third World countries, including:

  • Art supplies such as acrylic & watercolor paints, canvas & watercolor paper
  • Wheelchairs & crutches
  • Safe and favorable environments to create art
  • Art lessons for the disabled who aspire to be artists

We showcase the art created by disabled artists and provide for sales of their work through online galleries and live exhibits. This provides a means for the artists to support themselves and their families, not only lifting them out of poverty but enabling them to give back to their communities.

The Global Art Initiative also provides special projects for all children and adults, including:

  • Empathy education - Participants hear what it is like to live with a disability and experience firsthand painting with their feet and mouths, using wheelchairs and crutches for mobility, and exercising blindfolded with a guide.
  • In the classroom - Our mission is all about breaking down barriers to the disabled through the exchange of ideas, art, culture and understanding.  The process is often started in formal settings such as schools, houses of worship and detention centers.
  • Young Artist Exchange - Since art is a universal medium, the Global Art Initiative incorporates art as a means of connecting young people from different socio-economic backgrounds.  Initial exchanges of art will lead to lifelong friendships and exchanges across physical, social and economic barriers.

We encourage individuals and organizations to donate their time and resources to help us assist disabled artists to develop and sustain a better quality of life.