LOS ANGELES — Individuals with developmental disabilities are defying artistic stereotypes and claiming their rightful place in the global art scene at a new gallery in West Hollywood. Tierra del Sol is providing a platform for its talented artists to showcase their creations and express themselves through the “Taking Up Space” exhibition.

What You Need To Know

  • Tierra del Sol is an organization committed to empowering individuals with developmental disabilities
  • The organization offers opportunities for employment, education and artistic expression

  • The "Taking Up Space" exhibition is hosted in Tierra del Sol's new gallery in West Hollywood

  • "Taking Up Space" runs through Dec. 23 with open hours from Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Vicente Siso finds joy and fulfillment in his work, whether it’s crafting ceramic pots, intricate landscapes, posters or even a detailed model of the Titanic. His passion is evident in every piece he creates, and he is just one of many artists whose talents are being celebrated in this unique gallery setting. Tierra del Sol, an organization committed to empowering individuals with developmental disabilities, offers opportunities for employment, education and artistic expression. Siso, who has devoted 13 years to the program, expresses his gratitude.

“This is my future,” he said.

Siso is not alone in his artistic journey. The “Taking Up Space” exhibition in Tierra del Sol’s new West Hollywood gallery marks a significant milestone for these artists. The gallery allows individuals with developmental disabilities to share their creations in an area that houses major galleries, providing them with exposure to the broader art community.  

Rebecca Lienhard, CEO of Tierra del Sol, emphasizes the importance of giving a voice to this often overlooked segment of the population.

“There’s a subset of all of our folks that are really the artists in the world, and they bring the beauty and the culture into what we do every day,” Lienhard said.

The gallery serves as a launching point for these artists, allowing them to communicate their messages to the larger art community and the world.

“This gallery’s really one just one step further in that launching point for them,” Leinhard notes, emphasizing the goal of placing these artists on a level playing field with their contemporary counterparts.  

The gallery not only showcases the incredible artistic talents of individuals with developmental disabilities but also fosters a sense of achievement, as evidenced by the smiles, hugs and congratulations exchanged within its walls. For Siso and his fellow artists, “Taking Up Space” is a proud declaration of their presence in the world of art.

Taking Up Space runs through Dec. 23 with an opening celebration at the gallery’s new location at 7414 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90046. They will have open hours Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. or by appointment.