Charlie is an intuitive abstract artist embracing a blank canvas as an adventure in imaginative freedom. For 10 years now he has worked almost daily in his art studios, seeking to hone his craft and grow as an artist. Charlie dreams of seeing his art in museums, and diligently strives to reach his goal. With the support and advocacy of his mom, Kiki, Charlie shares his creativity with the world. Together they are committed to building community, connection and kindness through art.

The bold abstract works of Elizabeth Gauss form a visual timeline of healing and hope, reflecting her personal journey through recovery. Classically trained as a musician for 20 years, she brings a symphonic quality to her signature diptychs and triptychs, creating cohesive installations ideal for large spaces. After a mental health crisis in 2016, visual art became her lifeline, evolving from small pieces, to expansive canvases that embody strength, and self-acceptance. Her unapologetic use of color and scale challenge past invisibility, inviting viewers into her story of resilience.

Jean Gray Mohs is an artist who intricately melds science and spirit into abstract creations that reflect life’s most beautiful and difficult journeys. Her work is deeply informed by her personal journey through chronic illness and symbolizes the merging of separate entities into harmonious balance, reflecting her own transformative experience with a double lung transplant. Each material she uses lends itself to the storytelling process, allowing her to craft immersive experiences that resonate deeply with viewers. 

Justin is an artist who continues to surprise, delight and inspire those around him. In 2015, his career as a musician and a preschool music teacher came to an abrupt stop when Justin sustained a traumatic brain injury. Creativity gave Justin tangible, meaningful goals to focus on while going through the slow recovery from TBI. Through lots of frustration and false starts, Justin returned to his interest in visual art and began creating again. It wasn’t easy returning after a 20-year hiatus and recovery, but he continued to persevere.

Kae is a photographer, artist, and curator whose images share the grace of her surroundings and everyday objects, while educating others about neurodivergence. Growing up, she tapped into art-making in order to escape and feel safe. She eventually landed on photography as her niche. Her work features the emergence of bright colors, soft light, and the beauty of stillness. She enjoys exploring themes of identity, intersectionality, and challenges faced by those who experience the world differently.

Mike Hedrick is a photographer and writer who finds creativity to be a powerful source of grounding and connection. His art allows him to explore the world through contrast, both visually and emotionally, capturing light and darkness as reflections of the human experience. Through his photography, Mike invites viewers to see beauty in quiet moments and to appreciate the strength that can be found in solitude. By sharing his work through ArtLifting, he hopes to continue growing as an artist and to build greater independence through his creative career.

Miyakah’s art is a reflection of their neurodivergent identity, ancestral heritage, and a commitment to uplifting underrepresented communities. Born in Saskatchewan, Miyakah grew up being marvelled by the majestic Western Canadian skies and the rich artistic traditions of Africa and global indigenous cultures. These influences weren't just mere inspirations, but rather the very essence of beauty that shaped Miyakah's perception of the world. They share, “I've learned that my perspective is my power. Creating art has shown me the beauty in chaos, the strength in authenticity, and the importance of embracing my neurodivergence and identity unapologetically.”