The Art Collective, established in 1988 by Community Access Inc., is a place for people with psychiatric conditions to develop as artists. The Art Collective provides opportunities through art for members to enhance their sense of identity, meaning, and purpose in life by providing:

• Free instruction

• Studio space

• Workshops

• Field Trips

• Opportunities for its members to display and/or sell work, arranged for by the Art Collective

The Art Collective also provides participants an opportunity to build leadership skills and take responsibility for facilitating workshops and managing the activities of the Collective. The studio is an encouraging and supportive environment. No prior art experience is necessary. The Director of the Art Collective is Amy Sharp.

WHO DOES THIS PROGRAM AIM TO SERVE? Individuals who have the personal experience of living with mental health conditions.

HAS THE ART COLLECTIVE PROGRAM BEEN SUSPENDED DUE TO COVID-19? Yes. Regular programs, activities, and workshops have been suspended. The Art Collective will maintain contact with members to provide support remotely. Please check the Art Collective's website for up-to-date changes.

ABOUT COMMUNITY ACCESS: ABOUT COMMUNITY ACCESS: Community Access was founded in 1974 as a proactive and bold response to the mass release of patients from New York’s psychiatric hospitals. Community Access has since expanded beyond housing to also offer comprehensive support services, job training, counseling, education and advocacy programs to meet the needs of individuals who include people living with HIV/AIDS, veterans, those with histories of substance abuse, and the formerly incarcerated.