who is

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Program History

Elbow Room was formed in 2020 after the closure of various day programs due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. The goal was to maintain and support a community of Portland artists who have been working and creating side by side for the better part of a decade. Many, if not all, have moved through various iterations of progressive art programs around the Portland metro area most of their lives and have relied on the many systems in order to have access to creative and social space. 

Elbow Room began as a virtually based group that was open and accessible to folks experiencing intellectual and developmental disabilities. For seven days a week, participants could hang out with community members, socialize and make art. Art supplies were gathered and distributed throughout the community and when vaccines became available, small groups met in public to make art in person. As time went on, various community spaces offered to house art making groups for the day. 

After becoming a nonprofit 501(c)3, Elbow Room was able to secure a studio/gallery space in SE Portland in August 2022. Artists supported by various provider organizations now use the space and materials to explore creativity and participate in the latest iteration of a sustained art community.

Mission

Elbow Room is a 501(c)3 community art studio and gallery in SE Portland focused on providing material support, mentorship, and meaningful exhibition and collaboration opportunities for artists with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

We center the individual interests, needs, and goals of the artists we work with, and maintain an inclusive space for individuals and groups to develop an artistic practice and a shared creative community.