Community Highlights: Meet Chris Soto of SimplyArt Studios

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chris Soto.

Hi Chris, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
“This has been my dream for so many years. As you can imagine I love art. I’m passionate about art of all kinds. But what I love most are the reactions I see when people create things they love. When they discover a new medium they never tried and become fascinated. When they realize there’s no judgement, that they can be artistic and that their art is valued.”

I taught an after school art progam for several years. The school changed some things which made it difficult for me to continue.

The following year I went to an art festival and came across a booth for people with disabilities. Passion Works is in Athens Ohio and they are amazing. The two women running the booth were, Susan Dlouhy and Patty Mitchell. I talked to them for hours. I explained that I wanted to do something similar, but not exactly the same. I wanted a more inclusive art studio. I have a brother that suffered brain trama. I’ve watched how people treat him, expecting certian actions. He is an artist. I wanted people with disabilites to collaborate with other artists. Susan and Patty planted the seed. Susan gave me her card and told me to call her after she got back from vacation. The day she came back I called her. I’m sure she didn’t believe I would call, but I did. The rest as they say is history.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Yes and no. We have had a wonderful receiption from local artists and the Grandview community. We have been welcomed with open arms.

However, as a non profit in these challanging economic times it has been difficult to reach our financial goals.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about SimplyArt Studios?
The mission of SimplyArt Studios is to inspire and empower individuals to embrace creativity, self-expression, and the joy of the artistic journey.

As a nonprofit organization, we are dedicated to creating an inclusive, welcoming space where people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds can explore, learn, and experience the transformative power of art. With a special focus on supporting individuals with disabilities, we strive to nurture a love for the creative process—celebrating every step, spark of imagination, and moment of discovery along the way.

This summer we have hosted 69+ people with disabilities in our DIY studio, classes and events.

Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
This space is not large enough for all the people that have helped and supported my mission.
The most obvious are my brother, Susan and Patty. However, there are so many more. My family, the artists that have work in the studio, patrons, the local commuinity. Honestly, it’s endless and extremely touching!

SimplyArt is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering creativity and providing inclusive artistic opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds. We offer a range of experiential learning classes designed to inspire creativity and artistic expression, as well as open studio hours where artists can work, collaborate, and explore new ideas. Our welcoming space also features a thoughtfully curated retail area that showcases the unique work of artists from Central Ohio and beyond, celebrating a diversity of styles and perspectives.

At SimplyArt, we are committed to supporting artists with developmental differences, seniors, and the wider local community. Through our programming, we aim to create an inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to engage in the arts, express themselves freely, and contribute to a vibrant creative ecosystem. Whether you’re an experienced artist or just beginning your journey, SimplyArt is a place where creativity knows no bounds.

Pricing:

• Small gift items below $10.00
• Beauty products 3.50-25.00
• Textiles $12.00-$50.00
• Artwork $15.00 – $3,000.00

Contact Info:

• Website: https://simplyart.studio
• Instagram: @simplyart614
• Facebook: @simplyartstudios
• LinkedIn: simplyartstudio
• Yelp: simplyartstudios