Special Presentation Grove

Our goal is to align with the City of Mill Valley's stated intent to create a diverse, inclusive and welcoming community for people of all races and backgrounds. Our mutual hope is that the focus of the Special Grove on breaking down barriers, building bridges and creating connections will help achieve these goals.

Introducing the 2026 Special Presentation Grove!

This year’s theme, Art For a Better World, highlights the talents of neurologically diverse artists and supports MVFAF’s mission to build community through inclusion and connection.

We’re thrilled to feature work from Helpers Community (San Francisco) and Cedars, as well as returning group, Art Without Boundaries Group - representing Oak Hill School, the Helix School, and PAASS.

Art will be on display and for sale, come explore, support, and collect!

Featured Organizations

  • helpers logo

    Helpers Community

    Helpers Community Inc. is a San Francisco-based nonprofit supporting adults with developmental disabilities through the Helpers Artisan Boutique and Grant Program. The boutique exclusively showcases artwork by neurodiverse artists, providing opportunities for creative expression, income, and community inclusion.

    At the Mill Valley Art Festival Pop-Up, visitors will find original paintings, ceramics, handcrafted charcuterie boards, clay and foil sculptures, scarves, and greeting cards. Artist Matthaus will also demonstrate his unique foil and clay sculpting process on Saturday (time to be announced).

  • Logo with a heart-shaped design containing a basketball, soccer ball, football, and volleyball, surrounded by the text 'Active Hearts PAASS'.

    Artists Without Boundaries

    Artists Without Boundaries, a PAASS initiative, empowers neurodiverse individuals to express themselves through inclusive arts, fostering confidence, connection, and creativity without limits. Through adaptive programs and a supportive community, we celebrate every voice and ensure that art is accessible, meaningful, and transformative for all.  We proudly share and celebrate this creativity by offering original artwork for purchase, including handcrafted cards, framed art, and photography created by our artists.

  • Cedars logo

    Cedars

    Since 1919, Cedars has been inspiring creative, productive, joyous, and healthy lives for individuals with developmental disabilities. Supporting nearly 200 adults through residential and day programs across Marin County, Cedars offers engaging activities and income opportunities that empower participants to express themselves as artists, weavers, gardeners, volunteers, and more. This work was created by artists in Cedars Art Studios, programs providing creative workspaces, instruction, and professional mentorship to help artists explore diverse media and develop their careers as working artists.

    Cedars will be showcasing an art booth in the Grove featuring original framed art, matted art, ceramics, jewelry, and textiles. We will also have art demonstrations by Cedar's artists showcasing possible weaving and drawing / painting.