The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust and VaultArt Studio have joined forces to promote the inclusion of artists with disabilities in contemporary art. Their collaboration began earlier this year with the exhibition Life is Nice but Odd and Strange at the Same Time. Now, works from two VaultArt resident artists are on display in the Cultural District: Kim Bond: We Are Not Alone, Kim Bond: Tito Way Billboards, and Charlie Wallace’s contribution to the Associated Artists of Pittsburgh 110th Annual Exhibition.
Steph Neary, Manager of VaultArt Studio, and Anastasia James, Director of Galleries and Public Art at the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, discuss the importance of giving these artists greater exposure, the impact of the partnership so far, and the exciting steps ahead.
How did the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s Visual Arts department first connect with VaultArt Studio, and what sparked your interest in collaborating with them?
Anastasia James: I was first introduced to VaultArt Studio through my colleague, Josh Rievel, and was immediately captivated by the strength of their programming and their unwavering commitment to fostering the inclusion of artists with disabilities in contemporary art. One of the most significant connections I made was with Steph Neary, the Manager of VaultArt Studio. Steph’s dedication and vision in shaping and nurturing the vibrant community of artists at VaultArt is truly remarkable, and her leadership has been instrumental in creating a supportive, empowering environment for all involved.
Can you tell me more about how VaultArt Studio was formed?
Steph Neary: VaultArt Studio was founded in 2017 by Benjy Blanco as a project of Achieva and has evolved into a progressive approach to employment for artists with disabilities. We have created a vibrant, supportive environment that nurtures creativity and self-expression, empowering artists to develop their skills and pursue their passions.
With a small but dedicated team of three—myself, Sam Berner, and Cicely Murray—we couldn’t have accomplished this alone. We’ve received tremendous support from the community, our local partners, and progressive art studios across the US. VaultArt Studio operates as a collective, where the artists truly steer the direction of what happens here. The three of us simply turn on the lights and make sure the paint cans stay filled. Our role is to support and empower the artists, allowing their voices and creativity to shape the studio’s vision and initiatives.
VaultArt Studio resident artists and staff at Life is Nice but Odd and Strange at the Same Time. Photo by Krist Muñoz-Malavé.
VaultArt Studio's mission centers on supporting artists with disabilities. What aspects of this mission resonated with you and inspired your involvement in the collaboration?
Anastasia: At the heart of my work lies a deep conviction in the transformative power of artists. I believe that artists possess an extraordinary ability to help us navigate the complexities of the present, creating space for reflection, understanding, and genuine connection. Their work not only captures the nuances of our shared experiences but also invites us to envision a future that is more inclusive, compassionate, and just. This belief has shaped the very foundation of my career, driving my commitment to fostering environments where creativity can flourish, and communities can unite around shared ideals.
Over the years, I have dedicated myself to developing programs that empower artists, educators, and communities to engage in meaningful dialogue and collective imagination. My approach is rooted in the idea that true change emerges from collaboration, from a collective visioning process where diverse voices are not just heard but centered. Creative inquiry, in this sense, becomes a tool for dismantling societal barriers—especially for individuals who have historically been marginalized, such as those with disabilities.
My work is a reflection of a broader, deeply-held belief that through art, we can achieve equitable and lasting community transformation. By encouraging artists to explore and express their unique perspectives, we open doors for others to see the world through different lenses, fostering empathy and driving social progress. Ultimately, the partnerships and programs I have helped shape are not just about artistic creation; they are about building a more just and inclusive future for all.
How would you describe your partnership with VaultArt Studio so far?
Anastasia: Our partnership with VaultArt Studio has been deeply rewarding and aligns closely with my belief in the limitless capacity of artists to make meaning out of the present moment and foster authentic connections. VaultArt Studio, with its emphasis on inclusivity, especially for artists with disabilities, shares a similar ethos of breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for meaningful artistic expression. Working with their team and artists has been a collaborative and enriching experience. The team brings dedication and openness to every interaction, fostering a space where creativity thrives, and artists are empowered to push boundaries. The artists themselves inspire with their unique perspectives and talents, contributing to a collective vision of community change through art.
Steph: The collaboration between VaultArt Studio and the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust promotes inclusivity and accessibility in the arts. VaultArt provides studio space for 16 artists with disabilities, fostering self-expression, artistic development and a progressive approach to self-employment. Expanding their work beyond VaultArt Studio's walls is vital for both the artists and the local community. Showcasing their art in public spaces allows them to reach wider audiences and enhances appreciation for their artwork. Anastasia and I instantly clicked, sharing a strong ethos around art and accessibility. We both believe in the transformative power of art and the importance of financially supporting artists for their work. This shared vision drives our commitment to creating opportunities that empower artists and ensure their contributions are valued and recognized.
Life is Nice but Odd and Strange at the Same Time, on display early this year, presented over 100 works by sixteen of VaultArt Studio’s resident artists. What was it like to curate that exhibition with so many VaultArt artists exhibiting in the same space and to be given that platform to share their work?
Steph: Annually, VaultArt Studio hosts ten in-house art shows, which means we have an incredible amount of artwork to choose from. The artists we work with are so prolific that we could probably curate another 100 piece show next month with entirely new pieces!
Life is Nice but Odd and Strange at the Same Time was an incredible stepping stone toward our partnership with the Cultural Trust. Working with them has been a highlight of my career at VaultArt Studio. This collaboration not only elevated our visibility but also reinforced our mission. It’s been inspiring to see our artists recognized on such a prominent platform.
Charlie Wallace was one the sixteen artists to participate in Life is Nice but Odd and Strange at the Same Time.
Image credit: Charlie Wallace, Debarge. Courtesy the artist.
Kim Bond: We Are Not Alone, is Kim’s first solo exhibition. Why do you believe it’s important to support artists in bringing their first solo show to the public?
Anatasia: Supporting an artist in bringing their first solo exhibition to the public is a crucial milestone in their creative journey. For many artists, a solo show represents a transformative moment where they can fully articulate their vision, identity, and voice, unfiltered by the constraints of group exhibitions. In the case of Kim Bond’s: We Are Not Alone, this exhibition is not only a reflection of her unique artistic perspective but also a powerful declaration of her growth and talent as an individual artist.
A solo exhibition allows an artist to build deeper connections with their audience, as it provides a comprehensive platform to explore and communicate the themes that are most important to them. It is an opportunity for the artist to invite the public into their world, offering insight into their creative process, personal narratives, and the emotional depth of their work. This moment of visibility can be life-changing, affirming the artist’s place in the broader cultural conversation and often opening doors to future opportunities.
For Kim, having this platform through VaultArt Studio is particularly significant because it highlights the importance of creating accessible, inclusive spaces where diverse voices are not just welcomed but championed. It’s about much more than just a first exhibition—it’s about recognizing and amplifying the voices of artists with disabilities, ensuring their stories and perspectives are seen and valued by the broader community. By supporting artists in these solo exhibitions, we are fostering not only their personal development but also contributing to a more equitable and inclusive art world.
Kim Bond: We Are Not Alone at 707 Gallery.
The Associated Artists of Pittsburgh’s Annual Exhibition aims to celebrate and showcase diverse creative talents within the region. How does the work of Charlie Wallace (a VaultArt resident artist) contribute to and expand this tradition?
Anastasia: It was a great privilege to collaborate with VaultArt Studio and the Associated Artists of Pittsburgh in inviting Charlie Wallace to participate in the 110th Annual Exhibition at SPACE Gallery. Wallace’s inclusion, particularly his portrait of a player from the Homestead Grays, powerfully underscores the necessity of showcasing artists with disabilities in exhibitions that aim to reflect the full range of creative talent in our region. Joan Green, an artist with Parkinson’s, also contributes to this exhibition, reinforcing the importance of embracing diversity within artistic expression, including neurodiversity and physical disabilities. These contributions highlight the richness and depth that artists with disabilities bring to the cultural landscape, ensuring that exhibitions are truly inclusive and representative of all voices.
How do you see this partnership evolving? Are there any upcoming projects or exhibitions you’re excited about?
Anastasia: I see this partnership with VaultArt Studio as one with tremendous potential for growth and continued impact. The first two projects we’ve worked on were just the foundation for what I believe will be an ongoing, dynamic collaboration. Together, we've created a space where artistic expression is not just supported but celebrated, and this is only the beginning.
Looking ahead, I envision us deepening our commitment to providing platforms for artists with disabilities, expanding the reach of our programming, and fostering even more opportunities for community engagement. Our future projects will continue to be shaped by the belief that art is a catalyst for social change, especially when it embraces diverse perspectives and challenges traditional barriers.
One upcoming initiative I’m particularly excited about involves a multidisciplinary exhibition that will highlight the intersection of art, accessibility, and community. This project will bring together artists from VaultArt Studio with regional and national creatives to explore themes of identity, resilience, and collective visioning. Additionally, we are working on expanding our educational programs, offering workshops and talks that will engage the public in conversations about inclusivity in the arts.
This partnership has been an inspiring journey, and I’m energized by the possibilities it holds.
Kim Bond: Tito Way Billboards.
VaultArt exhibitions:
At VaultArt Studios:
October 4th: Ranch Dressing
November 1st: All Rights Reversed. All Wrongs Undone. (End of Year Sale)
December 6th: All Rights Reversed. All Wrongs Undone. (End of Year Sale)
Nationally:
September 3-October 26th: "Outside Forces" at Art Enables, Washington, DC (Tafara Bundrige, Sean Regis Traynor, Lauren McCoy, Wendy Davis)
Opening October 5th: "Don't Talk To Me Until I've Had My Lasagna" at SAGE Studio, Austin, TX (Darian Johnson and Edith Sullivan)
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