The Open Invitational

“The Open Invitational,” debuting this year as part of Miami Art Week, offers an innovative platform that highlights the talents of artists with mental and physical disabilities. Hosted at the vibrant Miami Design District’s Palm Court Event Space from December 2-8, 2024, the event is co-founded by David Fierman, a visionary in the contemporary art world, and Ross McCalla of The Outsider Institute. The Invitational centers on a groundbreaking mission to promote inclusivity and expand public appreciation for art often sidelined in mainstream discourse. The event will feature remarkable pieces from progressive art studios across the nation, representing unique creative voices and groundbreaking perspectives.

Backed by Miami Design District leader Craig Robins and additional support from the Bookleggers Library, “The Open Invitational” seeks to dissolve conventional art hierarchies, presenting collectors, curators, and institutions with vibrant, unconventional works that reshape traditional definitions of fine art. In doing so, it invites the art community to reimagine and celebrate the diverse possibilities of artistic expression through openness and accessibility.

Renowned studios such as Artech Collective (New York), Creative Growth (Oakland), and LAND Gallery (New York) will participate, showcasing pieces from artists who bring fresh, often overlooked perspectives. Attendees can look forward to experiencing works by these and other acclaimed studios that emphasize therapeutic and progressive art practices, transforming both the art world and societal perceptions of disability through creative exploration and powerful storytelling​.

PARTICIPANTS

2bnonprofit, Miami
Artech Collective, New York 
Arts of Life, Chicago
Center for Creative Works, Philadelphia
Creative Growth, Oakland
Community Access Art Collective, New York 
LAND Gallery, New York 
The Living Museum, New York
Progressive Art Studio Collective, Detroit
Studio Route 29, Frenchtown, NJ
Vinfen’s Gateway Arts, Boston

This event is a unique opportunity for art enthusiasts, collectors, and advocates to engage with artwork that both inspires and challenges norms, fostering a more inclusive art landscape that values all forms of expression.

For more details about upcoming events, click here.