So much happens at Open Door Art Studio & Gallery—on our walls, in our community, and through the bold creative voices of the artists we support. While our main exhibitions often get the spotlight, there are many meaningful moments that deserve to be shared. Here are a few recent highlights that show how Open Door artists continue to grow, connect, and inspire!

Showing Up and Shining at Franklinton Fridays

To build deeper connections between Open Door artists and the broader arts community, our studio has been taking part in Franklinton Fridays—a monthly celebration of art, music, and creativity in the Franklinton Arts District. These events offer our artists a consistent opportunity to engage with the public, represent their work, and take part in a vibrant, communal experience.

Our presence at 400 W Rich has helped our artists become a regular part of the local creative landscape. More importantly, it has opened doors for meaningful conversations. Whether discussing their process or simply introducing someone new to their art, Open Door artists are sharing their stories in ways that build understanding, connection, and confidence.

We look forward to continuing our participation in Franklinton Fridays and creating more space for our artists to shine.

A Dream Fulfilled at the DODD Open House

On March 24th, Open Door artists Chris Cole, Jessica Richards, and Sharese Spencer, along with Program Director Claire Smith, attended the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) Open House. The event was a celebration of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month—and an opportunity to honor a powerful work of art now on display inside DODD’s offices.

The mural, Endless Possibilities, created by Jackie Montgomery, Jessica Richards, and Sharese Spencer, now lives proudly on the walls of DODD. This collaborative piece invites viewers into a vivid world of cityscapes, rolling plains, and radiant skies—each section alive with vibrant color and imaginative energy.

Artists are often explorers at heart. They take in the world around them, interpret its complexities, and return with a vision shaped by insight, emotion, and imagination. Their art becomes a discovery—a new way to see and connect. Endless Possibilities reflects that spirit of discovery. Through expressive color and expansive scenery, the artists encourage viewers to step into the unknown not with hesitation, but with curiosity and courage.

The Open House also included a moment of deeply personal significance. For artist Chris Cole, it was the culmination of a long-held dream: meeting Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. Chris had been commissioned by Adam Herman of the Ohio Association of County Boards (OACB) to create a portrait of the Governor. The Open House provided the chance to present it in person.

Chris later received a signed photograph from the Governor’s office, capturing the exact moment they met. That photo now serves as a keepsake of not only the meeting, but of everything that led up to it: the dedication to his craft, the belief in his ability, and the doors that opened as a result.

It is moments like this that remind us how far passion, persistence, and self-advocacy can take someone—and how art can open doors in ways we never expect.

Special delivery! Chris receives a signed photo from Gov. DeWine’s office commemorating their meeting.

Tuneeka Haywood’s First Solo Exhibition

Alongside each large-scale exhibition at Open Door Art Studio & Gallery, our Expressions gallery wall provides a unique opportunity: a chance for Open Door artists to take full creative control. These mini-exhibitions are curated by the artists themselves, who are encouraged to interpret the overarching theme in their own way. Some choose to exhibit their own work, some highlight their peers, and some create a thoughtful mix of both.

The current Expressions exhibition was curated by artist Tuneeka Haywood and complements our main gallery show, This Inspired That. For Tuneeka, this was more than just another project—it marked her first-ever solo exhibition, and her first time stepping into the role of curator.

She took the lead on everything: selecting the works, deciding the layout, naming each piece, and determining how the overall presentation should feel. “Watching Tuneeka take this on was something special,” said Rowan, Open Door’s Assistant Director. “She has always brought intensity and focus to her artmaking, but this project showed a different side of her creativity. She was intentional—not just about the pieces she chose, but about how they came together.” Every small choice reflected her vision and thoughtful attention to detail.

The result is an exhibition that embodies Tuneeka’s clarity, confidence, and artistic growth. It invites visitors to experience her work from a fresh perspective.

Be sure to stop by and see it for yourself during your next visit!

Facility Updates: A Fresh New Space and Bold New Look

Exciting changes are underway for our ODAS artists! Our community studio at 400 West Rich has moved to a larger, more accessible room in the building—Studio #301. Thanks to the dedication of Creative Mentors Julieta and Alex, along with Program Director Claire, this transition has created a brighter, more welcoming space where our artists can create, connect, and collaborate.

The new studio was chosen in an effort to better support the unique needs of our artists while fostering creativity and connection. With more room for materials, equipment, and flexible setups, the refreshed space encourages fresh ways of making art.

The positive effects have been immediate. One artist, inspired by the new environment, returned to creating after some time away—showing how a supportive space can renew motivation and spark artistic exploration. This move is more than a physical change; it is an important step in nurturing our community’s growth and potential.

It’s important to note that only the community studio has relocated—Open Door Art Studio & Gallery remains at its original Grandview location, continuing to showcase the incredible work of our artists.

Alongside the studio move, Open Door Art Studio & Gallery received a bold exterior update. The refreshed paint gives the building a vibrant new look that stands out in the neighborhood, reflecting the energy and creativity inside.

We’re excited for this fresh chapter and invite you to stop by soon to experience the new studio space and the vibrant exterior for yourself!

Keep Following Along

From thought-provoking exhibitions and meaningful community engagements to exciting facility updates, 2025 is already shaping up to be an inspiring year for Open Door Art Studio! Stay connected with us as we continue to celebrate and amplify the voices of our talented artists—and create spaces where creativity and community thrive.

Coming up next—exhibitions to look forward to!