How One Entrepreneur Empowers Adults With Disabilities Through Art
This year at NetSuite’s SuiteWorld, Ramon had a chance to sit down with a number of fascinating entrepreneurs. One of them was Ann Kappes.
About Creativity Explored
Creativity Explored gives artists the space to create, and a space to show off their work. This is a rarity, as many studios focus on just one of the above. These artists have a deep relationship with Creativity Explored, as their art originates in their studio and then is seen and sold in their exhibits. Artists range from 20 years old to over 80 years old, and some have been with the studio since their opening in 1983.
A key focus of Creativity Explored’s services is to support those individuals with developmental disabilities who wish to become self-employed artists in creating and operating fully viable and profitable businesses.
Creativity Explored
Licensing Artwork
Ann works as the Director of Licensing. Licensing artwork from Creativity Explored is a powerful way for individuals and organizations to stand out, put a fresh look on communications and products, and get a leg up on the competition by associating your business with a good cause.
In fact, according to a recent Cone Cause Evolution and Environmental Survey, “92% of the public has a more positive image of a company that supports a cause they care about.”
Creativity Explored artists’ work has been used in a wide variety of products, including corporate calendars, greeting cards, CD covers, high-resolution framed prints, book and magazine covers, textiles, t-shirts, tote bags, pillows, rugs, skateboards, and even limited-edition chocolates. Patrons also license works for personal celebrations such as birthdays and weddings.
About Ann Kappes
Ann Kappes is an avid art appreciator whose work with cultural organizations includes curating, public program development, marketing, sales, and project management. Her diverse experiences with both commercial and nonprofit arts groups have enabled Ann to fulfill her professional pursuit of making these organizations exciting learning environments that engage and enhance their communities.
Ann has an MA degree in Museum Studies with an emphasis in curatorial studies complemented by a BA in Journalism with art and anthropology minors.
She joined Creativity Explored in 2009 after being a longtime supporter and advocate. She’s since been fortunate enough to collect a lot of amazing art and meet many equally amazing individuals.
“Something magical and truly unique happens each and every day I walk into the Creativity Explored studios and gallery. Whether I’m witnessing the creation of amazing new artwork being greeted enthusiastically by one of the over 135 plus artists working in our studios, or connecting with visitors, the experience at Creativity Explored never fails to surprise and inspire me. I often tell people that if I could capture the essence of CE in a bottle, we could sell it and support the organization for all eternity!”
Ann Kappes