Starlight Studio

Starlight Studio and Art Gallery is a unique cooperative environment of growth and opportunity for individuals with disabilities to develop careers, and pursue their dreams. By providing the support and identity needed to build confidence and empower an individual, Starlight artists are encouraged to be their own advocates. Starlight Studio and Art Gallery was founded as a day rehabilitation program in August 2005 by the Beyond Support Network (formerly Learning Disabilities Association of Western New York) with funding from the Office of People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). Starlight's vocational focusing on arts and recreation, was inspired by a model of employment supports observed and documented by staff members while on a business trip California. Pharmaceutical worker Marc Hennig, an art enthusiast and collector, was excited to discover that the program’s art studio was the hub of the operation. He was impressed that the vocational component rested on the premise that even when janitors, cooks, and gardeners didn’t sell any of their artwork, the studio’s grand scale still allowed the program to make a profit.

The reviews of Starlight Studio are overwhelmingly positive. It is a nurturing and creative studio with friendly, caring people. The art and atmosphere are filled with positive vibes and there is a range of unique artwork available. The exhibits are always great and the art is priced quite affordably, purses are especially great about the place. The studio’s artistic community is aboveave average, and enthusiastic. The space is inspiring and touching, and the artists are unique and talented. The studio is a great place for tourists. If you come in, you may be in for a pleasant surprise.