Welcome to Painted Beauty

Painted Beauty is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by artist and former special education teacher Nicole Ormsby. Our mission is to create accessible, supportive opportunities for individuals with disabilities to experience uninhibited artistic expression.

We believe every artist deserves the freedom to discover and express their individual artistic voice—without being defined by disability, social expectations, or perceived limitations.

Why Painted Beauty?

Throughout my work in special education and art, I have seen how often people with disabilities are guided toward what others believe they should be able to do. Painted Beauty grew from a desire to create something different: a place where artists are given the space, materials, adaptations, and encouragement to show us what they have inside them.

The goal is not to make every piece look the same or direct artists toward a predetermined result. The goal is freedom, discovery, confidence, joy, and authentic self-expression.

Our Vision for the Studio

Painted Beauty is working toward a calm, fully accessible art studio that may include:

  • Adaptable seated and standing workstations

  • Accessible art tools and brushes

  • Non-toxic acrylic paints and drawing materials

  • Storage for artwork in progress

  • Accessible sinks and restrooms

  • Open studio sessions

  • Classes taught by local artists

  • A small gallery celebrating participating artists

Painted Beauty will not operate as a drop-off care facility. Participants who require personal assistance will attend with a family member, caregiver, or support professional.

Looking Ahead

Our first priority is establishing an accessible art studio that responds to the needs of the community. As Painted Beauty grows, we hope to expand programs, partnerships, gallery opportunities, and eventually create additional locations or a larger inclusive art campus.

Meet the Founder

Nicole Ormsby is an artist, muralist, and former special education teacher. Painted Beauty brings together her experience supporting individuals with disabilities and her belief in the transformative freedom of artistic expression.