ArtLifting Brings Inclusive Art Into Designed Spaces

Before co-founding ArtLifting, CEO Liz Powers worked as a social worker in Boston, supporting individuals in housing navigation centers and community art programs. She saw talented artists creating professional-quality work, yet their pieces remained unseen and unsold.

Many faced barriers to traditional employment due to disabilities or health conditions, despite their artistic excellence. As an artist herself, Liz knew how powerful it feels to have your work valued and how often the art world overlooks those whose paths differ from the norm.

In 2013, Liz and her brother, Spencer, launched ArtLifting with a clear mission: to connect underrepresented artists with customers eager to celebrate their work and make a meaningful social impact. By bridging that gap, ArtLifting helps build an accessible and inclusive economy where people are defined by their talent, not their circumstances.

To date, ArtLifting has generated tens of millions in art sales, directly supporting professional artists with disabilities across North America. Our model directs 55% of profits to artists. Additionally, 1% of profits are contributed to the ArtLifting Community Impact Fund, which provides grants, art supplies, and professional development for participating artists and community partners. As of 2026, ArtLifting has distributed more than $450,000 through this fund to expand access and opportunity.

These earnings aren’t just income—they represent stability, dignity, and hope. Each sale is a tangible investment in human potential. ArtLifting artists report that selling their artwork positively impacts all areas of their lives. Over 95% of artists report increased confidence, and 97% feel valued knowing their artwork is displayed in offices and spaces across the country.

This confidence permeates every aspects of their lives. Many artists report trying different art styles, setting new goals, and pushing their art practice to new frontiers. When artists see their work celebrated in meaningful ways, it reinforces what we all need: to feel seen, valued, and capable.

Today, more than 500 clients work with ArtLifting to uplift their spaces and communities. Each artwork becomes a living expression of shared values—proof that design can drive empathy as effectively as it drives performance.

“ArtLifting has been a strong partner in enhancing the day-to-day experience within our buildings through art installations,” said Rob Naso, managing partner and head of U.S. Asset Management, BGO. “The stunning artwork and inspiring artist stories create meaningful connections for BGO teams and tenants.”

By acquiring, renting, or rotating artwork from ArtLifting artists, our partners are designing social impact into their spaces, sparking meaningful engagement, and redefining what inclusion looks like in the workplace and beyond.

Each ArtLifting partnership expands opportunity, reshapes narratives, and proves that when creativity and opportunity meet, everyone thrives.

Contributed by ArtLifting, with editing by Carrie Meadows for interiors+sources. Abridged article published with permission from ArtLifting. View the full-length original work, “How ArtLifting Is Building a More Inclusive Creative Economy,” from ArtLifting’s website.