PASC was launched in January 2021 as the first and only progressive art studio and exhibition program in Detroit and Wayne County, dedicated to supporting artists with developmental disabilities and/or mental health differences to advance independent artistic practices and build individual career paths in the contemporary art world.
PASC runs three studios in Detroit, Southgate, and Westland, Michigan, working with over 190 artists with disabilities weekly. PASC is a program of Services to Enhance Potential (STEP).
PASC is based on a progressive art studio structure. A progressive art studio is a community-based open studio program who works with artists with disabilities in a professional art studio environment. These studios have an educational ethos developed for adults with disabilities and are united by a goal to support them in building and maintaining careers in contemporary art. There are many progressive art studio programs across the United States.
At PASC, artists work with a staff of peer practicing artists and curators who offer advice, expertise, and encouragement to aid our artists in their career paths. Our studio provides professional art materials, while our gallery provides exhibition support and representation.
PASC's logo was designed by PASC artist Keisha Miller
PASC is a program of Services to Enhance Potential (STEP), a non-profit service organization, founded in 1972, that provides services and supports for 1300+ individuals with disabilities and mental health differences in Southeastern Michigan. STEP’s mission is to support individuals in the pursuit of their chosen goals and to achieve personal satisfaction in their lives.
PASC is a part of PASA (Progressive Art Studio Alliance), a membership organization of progressive art studios, independent professionals in the field, and allies that advocate for resources and policies to improve the outcomes of PAS programs across the United States and abroad. As the only organization focusing on Progressive Art Studios, the Alliance works to provide shared opportunities for advocacy, collaboration, education, research, and public policy.
Funding and Support
PASC has been supported with grants from the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan (CFSEM) (2024), Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) (2023), National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) (2023-24), Michigan Arts and Culture Council (MACC) (2022/2023), The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts (2025-2026), The Gilbert Family Foundation (2025-26) The Erb Foundation, The Applebaum Family Compass Fund, and The Hudson Webber Foundation. As well as donations from foundations and individuals.
