Our Vision
At I Just Am, we envision a world where everyone belongs and flourishes regardless of the challenges they face.
Our Mission
At I Just AM Studio, we believe that everyone is creative—and that art has the power to connect, include, and transform. As a nonprofit art space, we offer inclusive, hands-on opportunities for creative expression, connection, hands on learning, and community building.
We provide our art teachers and volunteers with training in Universal Design for Learning, trauma-informed practices and principles of process art. Our studio is a sensory friendly environment with a wide range of mediums, materials and inspiration. We offer multiple ways to learn and create so people of all ages and abilities can meaningfully participate.
Whether someone prefers to communicate with words, movement or texture – we see creativity as a powerful tool for expression, connection and healing.
We don’t just make art- we make space for people to be creative in their own way.
Our Values
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Art helps us understand ourselves and each other.
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Everyone deserves brave and joyful spaces to create.
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Creativity builds connection and belonging.
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Art can change hearts, minds and communities.
What We Do
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Encourage inclusion by making the arts accessible for everyone and providing individuals and families who may not have regular access to arts activities and events with ongoing opportunities to participate for free.
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Acknowledge and celebrate the uniqueness of every individual and their creative accomplishments.
Enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities by providing them with opportunities to define them selves as creators and artists. -
Strengthen relationships between community members and organizations, bringing together people who might not otherwise be connected, to create and learn from one another.
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Inspire community action through collaborative art making and art exhibits that address subjects and themes that matter to community members.
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Provide vocational training experiences in a community space.
Our Team
Janice Weinstein, PsyD
Founder, I Just Am Studio
Founding I Just Am Studio grew from my love of helping people heal and discover their passionate purpose. I believe everyone is inherently creative, and that art has the power to connect, include, and transform communities.
I use a strengths-based, relational approach to support individuals, families, and organizations in thriving—no matter what challenges they face. My creative practice is inspired by nature, travel, and the everyday beauty of life.
I love exploring all kinds of art-making experiences and believe in the joy of creating together.
I can’t wait to welcome you and your family to the studio.
Please reach out to me at: janiceweinstein@ijustamstudio.org
Joan Martin
Studio Manager & Artist, I Just Am Studio
Hi! I’m Joan Martin, Studio Manager and Artist at I Just Am Studio. I’ve proudly called the Northbrook/Glenview area home for over 35 years, where I’ve raised my family and built a life rooted in creativity and community.
My later-in-life career has focused on developing inclusive programs, solving challenges creatively, and teaching people of all ages and abilities to discover and nurture their unique gifts. Helping others grow through the arts—and connecting through shared creativity—is truly a dream come true.
I can’t wait to welcome you to the Studio!
Please reach out to me at: joan@ijustamstudio.org
Our Story
My daughter, Sarah, is 34 years old and has Down syndrome. Whenever we ask Sarah how she’s so joyful, successful or brave in spite of life’s challenges, she always says, “I just am!” This phrase has become a mantra for our family in good times and bad, and we hope it can become one for you, too.
Sarah is the oldest of three girls. She was born prematurely with myriad health issues and developmental challenges. The early years of her life felt like a rollercoaster of heartbreak, but we managed to persist by connecting deeply with Sarah and learning to follow her lead.
The list of ways Sarah inspires those around her is endless. She begins and ends each day being open to what’s possible. She knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to go for it. And she handles suffering and disappointment with true grace.
She also lives in the moment, and in doing so, she’s able to tap into joy and wonder on a regular basis. This is evident through her bright, colorful and moving artwork, as well as her passion for the visual and performing arts. Sarah sang before she talked. As a baby, she was Raffi’s biggest fan. And looking back, her most successful therapies as a child always incorporated some form of creativity.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Sarah had to stop working, so we spent time crafting and painting together. Our family and friends loved receiving her vibrant paintings and heartfelt cards. We wanted to find a home for her artwork, so we asked local business owners in the Chicagoland area if we could display it. People quickly began buying her paintings and cards, and from there, I Just Am was born.
Sarah’s accomplishments may seem ordinary to many, but to us, they’re extraordinary. Here at I Just Am, our goal is to inspire everyone to feel as confident, brave and joyful as Sarah. We welcome you to the community we’re building.
- Janice Weinstein,
founder and CEO of I Just Am
