Our Theory of Change

Through its visual arts studio program, NIAD gives people with disabilities the skills and experience to express themselves, be independent and earn income as an artist. This nurturing community of artists fosters experimentation, increases competence to make informed choices and increases connections among diverse communities through the commonality of creative expression.

Our Mission 

NIAD promotes creative expression, independence, dignity and community integration for people with disabilities.

Our Vision

A unified community where everyone is included, and art makes the individual and their story visible.

Our Values

1. Diversity, inclusivity, and accessibility
2. Open, straightforward communication
3. Support, respect, and safe spaces
4. Our community and the opportunity to work together
5. Environmental awareness and sustainability
6. Artistic growth and hard work
7. Exploration, change, taking risks, and failing forward
8. Trust, mindfulness, and self-ownership
9. The needs and perspectives of others
10. Humor, fun, and joy!

Read NIAD Art Center’s Annual Report 2021/2022

Lea el Informe anual del Centro de Arte NIAD 2021/2022

Administration

Executive Director // Amanda Eicher

Programs Director // Arden Fredman

Community Programs Director // Ember Avalos

Art Marketing & Partnerships Director // Isabelle Zhang

Development Director // Rebecca Teague

Administrative Director // Ingrid Alonso-Rodriguez

Accessibility & Communications Specialist // Chrissie Bradley

Administrative Coordinator // Tara Neuffer

Exhibitions & Collections Associate // Liliana Herrera

Gallery Manager // Julio Rodriguez

Development Associate // Maria Yates

Studio

23rd Street Studio Director // Liam Golden

Virtual Studio Director // Dawline-Jane Oni-Eseleh

Community Studio Manager // Shantanice Swain

Community Studio Manager // Terri Moore

Studio Facilitator // Andres Cisneros-Galindo

Studio Facilitator & Community Programs Assistant // Gabriel Garza

Studio Facilitator // Kieren Dutcher*

Studio Facilitator // Kim Huhta*

Studio Facilitator // Em Kettner

Studio Facilitator // Steen Kjorlie

Studio Facilitator // mara poliak

Studio Facilitator // Chelsea Smith

Studio Facilitator // Josh Solis

Studio Facilitator // Emma Spertus

Studio Facilitator // Bill Zindel

Studio Facilitator & Community Programs Assistant // Ocean Escalanti

Studio Facilitator // Josh Vidal

Studio Facilitator // Erin McCluskey Wheeler

*Funding for these positions is generously provided through a partnership with West Contra Costa Unified School District Adult Education.

Board of Directors