Upstream Arts

We're still practicing creativity,
because our disability community needs community, now more than ever.

Thank you for your curiosity about Upstream Arts and the work that we do at the intersection of Arts, Disability, and Learning.

In these unprecedented times when access has become more prominent in our collective conscious, all while services for people with disabilities are being slashed or suspended, we are as active as ever in providing creative support in self-expression and self-advocacy for our community of all ages and abilities. Upstream Arts is also committed to keep investing in our roster of 30+ professionally-accomplished Teaching Artists, who are community leaders and agents of social change, now more than ever.

We invite you to join us!

- Read about our work in our NEW 19-20 Annual Report

- Watch our library of studio ACCESS  arts-learning videos, guided by our multidisciplinary Teaching Artists.

- Register for a free online class for adults with disabilities, 1-hour long live interactive group experiences that utilize a full range of the arts.

- Sign up for our weekly newsletter, and get updates about new offerings, activities, and advocacy campaigns.

Have a question or just want to reach out? Send a note to Elle Thoni, our Development and Communications Assistant, at elle@upstreamarts.org.

Thank you for partnering with us, our disability community, and our Teaching Artists to ensure that ACCESS is the way forward. We wouldn't be able to do this work without you!

With gratitude,

All of us at Upstream Arts

Mission

Upstream Arts uses the power of the creative arts to activate and amplify the voice and choice of individuals with disabilities.

Vision

We will change mindsets about ability and disability and promote more connected and engaged communities by increasing intentional opportunities for shared creative experiences.

History

Upstream Arts was founded in 2006 by parents that witnessed first-hand the positive impact of the arts education on their son, Caleb. Caleb, who is non-verbal, was born with Cornelia de Lange Syndrome, which affects his physical and cognitive development. Caleb’s father, a professional theatre artist and educator in the Twin Cities, exposed Caleb to theatre and dance at a young age. Caleb, who previously had few tools to communicate, began to use the physical movements, body language, and facial expressions he learned through the arts to communicate and engage with those around him. Out of this spirit and determination, Upstream Arts was born.

Learn more about us and see what we're up to at  www.upstreamarts.org