Those who can not speak often have important things to say. Access Art empowers neurodivergent individuals to utilize their expressive voice.
Unlock creativity, find your voice
Welcome to Access Art: Opening Doors Through Art, where every individual is empowered to discover their unique artistic expression. We provide a safe and inclusive space for neurodivergent and special needs individuals to explore art, grow, and connect.
Our unique approach
At Access Art, we believe in teaching individuals, not just a curriculum. Our approach focuses on creating an emotionally safe learning environment where students can develop their own expressive language and feel empowered to have a voice through art.
We do not do cookie cutter projects. We get to know each individual and facilitate an understanding of the expressive voice that material and process offers each person. We teach our students how to express themselves and develop a voice. We help our students access creativity, self-expression and overcome barriers.
Meet the educator
I am a newly retired art educator with 32 years of experience in Fairfax County Public Schools. My passion lies in providing an inclusive and emotionally safe learning environment where every student can thrive and express themselves authentically.
Published Work
Rattray, J., & Ravenstahl, M. (2014). Mediating liminality: Artefacts as a means of supporting threshold transformations. In Fifth International Biennial Threshold Concepts Conference, Threshold Concepts in Practice.
Ravenstahl, M. (2021). Understanding Art Education through the Lens of Threshold Concepts. In Understanding Art Education through the Lens of Threshold Concepts. Brill.
Ravenstahl, M. J., & Rattray, J. (2019). Bringing the Apple and Holding up the Mirror: Liminal Space and Transformation in Visual Art Making. In Threshold Concepts on the Edge (pp. 127-142). Brill Sense.
RAVENSTAHL, M. (2018). Bringing the Apple and Holding Up the Mirror-A Qualitative Study of Student Engagement in Visual Art and the Navigation of Liminal Space and Transformation (Doctoral dissertation, Durham University).
Tailored art experiences
We offer specialized art classes designed to meet the diverse needs of the neurodivergent and special needs community. From private sessions to small group settings, each program fosters creativity and builds confidence.
Individual or small group class rates
Schedule a class
Currently we schedule session times and days based upon your availability. If you want to schedule classes contact Dr. Ravenstahl: mattj.ravenstahl@gmail.com
In the future we may need to pre-set class times and days. Currently we are able to accommodate most needs.
All studio sessions are personally facilitated by Dr Ravenstahl.
Portfolio development
Students embark on a personal exploration that begins with developing an understanding of their visual language. Dr. Ravenstahl then challenges the students to experiment and take creative risks with their work and realize their creative potential. Below is one student body of work, she is neurodivergent and visually impaired.
Hear from our community
Student Portfolios: Each student develops a visual language that we explore and push to the boundaries of new ideas.
"Access Art has been a game-changer for my child. They've found a place where they truly belong and can express themselves without judgment."
Satisfied Parent
"The educator's dedication to understanding each student is incredible. My child has blossomed artistically and socially."
Community Member
"This is more than just an art class; it's a supportive community that empowers individuals to find their creative voice."
Happy Student