North Pole Studio

Mission

North Pole Studio supports careers in the arts, and exists to increase opportunities for artists with autism & intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) to thrive as active members of the arts community. We foster self-determination and facilitate meaningful connections through total engagement in the arts.

Bottom Line for Portland

Artists with autism and I/DD are underserved and underrepresented in the arts across educational, recreational, and professional spaces. We exist to ensure this population of artists is engaged, represented, and visible in the local and national arts community. Art is for everyone, and our programs provide accessible, inclusive opportunities for artists to create, connect, and thrive.

Quote

“This is who I am, this is what I like. It is because I have autism, that has led me to do this kind of work." - A.B., artist

"North Pole Studio is a safe place for artists with different communication methods who may not feel welcome elsewhere… as a caregiver, it's refreshing to not have to explain or justify… and instead be welcomed without question.” - T.D., caregiver

“What I want people to know through my art is that I'm alive, I'm real, I'm here.” - O.S., artist

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

North Pole Studio was co-founded by Davis Wohlford, a prolific, self-taught autistic artist. We provide accessible studio space for a community of artists who share a serious interest in, and commitment to, creating and exhibiting art. The studio is a place where neurodiversity is valued, and where diverse perspectives are honored and recognized as a strength.

We are located in NW Marine Artworks, Portland’s largest collective of professional artist studios. In this space, artists with autism and I/DD are included and engaged members of the professional arts community. The studio space and culture is thoughtfully organized to be supportive of diverse sensory needs.

Incentives

Donate $25 or more and receive a $10 gift certificate to Fried Egg I'm In Love!

Kickstart our campaign! The first $500 raised will be matched by Unitus Bank!

Double your impact! The first $5,000 raised will be matched by Dogtopia!

Anyone who donates to North Pole Studio or Caldera Arts on December 7th is entered to win a collaborative basket of merch. If you donate to both, your name will be entered twice!

The first five people to donate $200 or more from December 25th - 31st will receive a $100 gift certificate to Great Notion Brewing!

Partner(s)

Fried Egg I'm in Love

Fried Egg I'm In Love makes Portland's best breakfast sandwiches. Each fried egg sandwich has a punny name, a perfectly cooked egg, and is crafted with love. And everyone (even carnivores!) LOVES our gluten-free and vegan options!

Dogtopia Portland

At Dogtopia, we’re a unique breed. We love and care for your pup like they are our own. We realize that your dog is a furry member of your family and they deserve the highest level of care. The Dogtopia Foundation shares North Pole Studio's commitment to supporting adults with autism lead self-determined careers by providing accessible and supported employment opportunities within their daycare centers. 

Unitus Community Credit Union

Driven by one of the principles that credit unions were founded upon, “people helping people,” giving back has been at the heart of Unitus since our founding in 1937. We believe in doing the right thing for our employees, members, and local communities.

Great Notion

We're serious about keeping beer fun. At Great Notion, we put care and creativity into each beer we brew, from classic lagers and hazy IPAs to off-the-wall sours and stouts. And with online ordering, the Great Notion App, and eight locations along the West Coast, it's never been easier for you to keep beer fun too.

Non-Profit Partners

North Pole Studio believes in the power of collectivity and is proud to help amplify the work of dedicated organizations serving Portland's creative communities.

Caldera Arts

Caldera’s mission is to inspire and support youth from underserved rural and urban communities by awakening the potential of their creative voice. We believe that when youth are given access to the explosive power of creativity, they can change their world and even the world at large.

Write Around Portland

Write Around Portland changes lives through the power of writing.