New Art Program in McCook Opens Creative Doors for All

McCook, Neb. - This past week, I had the privilege of working alongside SWATS and the ArtBank on the pilot phase of a new art program designed to provide creative opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities in our community.

The idea for this program grew out of conversations with Tom DiMaria, Director Emeritus of Creative Growth in Oakland, California, and founder of Arts Access for All. Tom has spent his career supporting artists with disabilities, helping Creative Growth become one of the most respected studios in the world. Artists from Creative Growth have had their work featured at the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Smithsonian.

Tom generously shared his insights with our teams from SWATS and ArtBank as we explored how to create a similar space for creativity and connection in McCook.

This week marked the beginning of that journey. We welcomed participants from SWATS into the ArtBank for self-guided art sessions. Alongside staff and volunteers, we helped create a welcoming, low-pressure space where each individual could explore art in their own way.

Right now, we are using donated art supplies to get started, and we are incredibly grateful for those contributions. In addition, thanks to the generosity of the Graff Charitable Foundation, SWATS received a $1,000 donation earmarked specifically for purchasing quality art supplies. This funding will help us provide participants with access to a wider variety of materials as they discover the mediums they enjoy most—whether that’s painting, clay, beads, or something else entirely.

As with any pilot program, we expect things to evolve. We’ll learn from the participants and adjust along the way to better meet their interests and needs.

Already, we’ve seen inspiring moments. One gentleman who spent the first day quietly observing returned later in the week and painted five beautiful watercolor pieces. A staff member remarked how meaningful it was to see him light up when he found something he truly enjoyed.

When paints and markers didn’t spark interest, our volunteers introduced other materials like beads and clay. A huge thank-you to Fatima Rodriguez, a Senior at McCook High School, whose creativity, kindness, and intuitive approach helped keep everyone engaged and inspired.

This is just the start. We hope to continue growing this program, creating a safe, joyful space where creativity belongs to everyone.

If you’d like to learn more about Arts Access for All, the nonprofit founded by Tom DiMaria, or Creative Growth Studio, where this work began, visit Arts Access for All and Creative Growth.