Summit Spotlight: Passion Works in Athens

“To create and support inclusive communities through individual exploration and the collaborative art process.” 
- Passion Works mission statement 

Check out Passion Works, an all-inclusive collaborative art studio in uptown Athens, Ohio. 

Passion Works began in 1998 in the small corner of a workshop, supported by a grant from the Ohio Arts Council. In 2009, the studio relocated to their current place of residence, whose vibrant exterior is instantly noticeable amongst the greys and browns of the surrounding area. Nine years after their move, Passion Works became a 501(c)(3) non-profit arts organization. 

The eye-catching, vibrant nature of the studio is matched, if not exceeded, by that of the art created inside. From painted guitars to intricate animal portraits to their signature Passion Flowers, every masterpiece is uniquely and beautifully crafted. Passion Works takes creative lead from their core artists with developmental differences, while collaborating with individuals of all abilities, creating a highly inclusive place of employment and self-expression. Additionally, much of the art is sustainably created with upcycled materials. 

Passion Works has a variety of artwork available for purchase in-studio or online. The proceeds from the sales are split 60/40% between the artists and the studio. The studio also donates 20% of the sales from specialty Passion Flowers to causes in the local area.

More information about Passion Works and how you can support them can be found at passionworks.org.