Art Beyond was founded by Elizabeth Palmisano and Esther Davidson out of a shared belief that creativity is a powerful tool for learning, connection, and transformation. Coming from two different backgrounds—Elizabeth as an artist and educator, and Esther as a strategist and systems thinker—they combined their strengths to create a space where artists, educators, and organizations could learn to harness creativity in meaningful ways.

At its core, Art Beyond exists because creativity is not just about making art—it’s about building skills that shape how we engage with the world. Creativity teaches problem-solving, collaboration, and the ability to embrace new experiences with curiosity and confidence. These are skills that serve people their whole lives—whether they become artists, engineers, educators, or community leaders.

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Elizabeth’s work has always been guided by a key question: Why are we doing this? In a world that often prioritizes productivity over presence, Art Beyond challenges the idea that creativity is just about producing something quickly or following a formula. Instead, it focuses on engagement, experience, and connection. Whether working with children or adults, the goal is not just to complete an activity but to create a meaningful experience—one that leaves participants feeling inspired, valued, and more connected to themselves and others.

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Esther’s expertise in structure, organization, and accessibility played a key role in shaping Art Beyond’s approach, particularly in developing resources that support creative individuals in making their work sustainable.

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At Art Beyond, we believe that investing in creativity is essential—not just for personal growth, but for our collective future. The challenges we face as a society require innovative thinking, collaboration, and the ability to see from different perspectives. Art is a powerful tool for connection, helping us recognize that we are more alike than different, and that diverse voices and experiences enrich every community.

We don’t just teach art—we cultivate a mindset that values inclusion, exploration, and the power of creative thinking in every aspect of life.