Art Enables (Washington, DC), Make Studio (Baltimore, MD), and Riera Studio (Havana, Cuba) are proud to present “PRIMO,” a two-site exhibition that brings together work by artists from all three progressive art studios. On view at both Art Enables and Make Studio, this exhibition marks the Riera Studio artists’ U.S. debut. We invoke the word “primo” as both English slang for “excellent” and the Spanish word for “cousin.”

The works on view display a wide range of artistic visions, while stylistic and thematic similarities reveal a meaningful kinship. Groupings of works sharing recognizable threads are gathered together in a conversation that spans borders. The works in this show speak to each other and are also part of a larger discourse: the rich history of self-taught and outsider artists. While the definition of “outsider art” has evolved over time, the heart of what defines it persists: self-taught artists who express themselves on the margin of the established cultural mainstream. All three participating studios celebrate these unique perspectives, their crucial place in the larger arts landscape, and the sense of connection amplified when we’re together.

Art Enables Art Enables is an art studio and gallery dedicated to amplifying the creative careers of artists with disabilities. Guided by the belief that artists with disabilities are vital to a robust arts landscape, Art Enables provides a platform for resident artists to develop and exhibit their work, creating space for their unique perspectives while dismantling stereotypes and celebrating inclusion. We help create opportunities for artists with disabilities to make, market, and earn income from their original and compelling artwork while building crucial skills, relationships, and experiences important to emerging and established artists.

Make Studio is a 501(c)3 community-based arts organization in Baltimore, MD, envisioning a world of acceptance and inclusion where art opens doors for everyone. Make Studio empowers artists with disabilities to grow as professionals with visibility and voice in their communities. We create opportunities for everyone to connect through art. Our program for artists follows the progressive art studio model, originated by Elias Katz and Florence Ludins-Katz. A progressive studio is a fine art studio environment where adults with disabilities can pursue and maintain lives or careers as artists. We are the only one in the Baltimore metro area.