REVEL is an organization located in the RiNo neighborhood of Denver that supports teens and adults on the autism spectrum by connecting, working, learning, and exploring new interests with its members.
RedLine has had the pleasure of collaborating with REVEL to bring monthly workshops to REVEL participants, led by rotating RedLine Resident Artists, Core Artists from our Reach program, Youth Art Mentors, and other community artists.
Through these workshops, we connect diverse communities with local artists to help create new outlets for creativity and social emotional learning. Visiting artists teach how to use various mediums and techniques, while expanding on their classes’ current skills.
Learn more about the impactful work of REVEL and the collaborative art workshops with RedLine!
What is REVEL?
Insights provided by Mark Zoller of REVEL
REVEL originated as an outlet to fill the gap that young adults on the autism spectrum experience as they age out of their familiar school-based social and educational daily structure.
REVEL offers various programs that support participants in routines, group exposure, and social experiences, including employment.
Once young adults turn 21, the services available through high school and transition programs end and the “cliff” begins.
Why is REVEL Important?
From REVEL’s inception in 2016 — serving 3 young adults as an after school social lounge to today, where we serve 40+ individuals ages 18 and older with a staff of highly trained specialists from our offices in Denver's RiNo neighborhood — programs and funding for adults with I/DD are limited, resulting in increased rates of social isolation, depression, and unemployment.
REVEL strives to provide a bridge for this undeserved group, and is committed to creating opportunities for these individuals to become active, integrated participants in their community, living fulfilling lives, and reaching their fullest potential.
RedLine Resident Artists Leading Workshops with Revel Artists
Image by Jenna Maurice
Insights provided by Jenna Maurice, 2022-2024 RedLine Resident Artist
Our October workshop was great. The students were engaged and seemed to enjoy making photographs without using a camera.
The workshop was about a process called Lumen Printing, where you take black and white photographic paper (for darkroom use) and put objects on it and set it out in the sun to expose. It's interesting because the black and white paper turns all shades of colors when exposed to sunlight as well as when it comes into contact with different natural acids (like salsa or vinegar or fruit juices).
Image by Jenna Maurice
Insights provided by Yazz Atmore, 2022-2024 RedLine Resident Artist
“I planned for participants to create mini murals for the workshop. The goal was for participants to create their own version of a mini mural.
“Participants loved the options to use collage items and/or paint to create their mini murals. Participants also enjoyed that this art project was low pressure and it was just simply designed for participants to create in community.
Image by Yazz Atmore
“I absolutely love this organization! The work REVEL is doing is truly needed and amazing. Having a brother with autism who has been looking for community learning more about this organization is exactly what we have been looking for.
“I hope REVEL is around for a very long time. May this organization continue to be blessed ten fold!”
Future Plans for REVEL
Insights provided by Mark Zoller
As REVEL continues to grow, we see a life without limits for our participants, where they achieve individualized independence and find meaningful roles in their communities.
We plan to continue to grow our “Gear Up” program in 2023, providing a social, educational and creative outlet to all of our REVELers through partners like RedLine Art Collective, Think360 Arts, Denver Fencing Center, Rhythmic Roots Music Therapy, and Haute Yoga.
We will also be expanding to provide an employment based transition program called REV UP, for adults on the spectrum looking to start building and maintaining an independent lifestyle.
Support RedLine’s Community Outreach Programs
At RedLine, it’s our mission to engage diverse communities and support equitable access to the arts for under-resourced populations in Denver.
Our partnership with REVEL has been an enriching way for RedLine’s Resident Artist alumni to manifest this goal.
With a history of responding to local societal needs through artistic interventions, RedLine has become an essential and profoundly connected member of Denver's creative ecosystem and the go-to resource for professional artists and local communities to create positive social change.
