The Marnie Paul Arts Center was founded by Austin resident Barbara Paul. The mother of a daughter with cerebral palsy, Barbara has witnessed first-hand the power of the arts to teach, to empower, and to bring joy. Unfortunately, affordable, inclusive arts programs have been so limited in the Austin area as to be virtually unobtainable for the vast majority of individuals with limited conditions. After contacting expressive arts programs in other states, conducting a survey to determine local need and interest, Barbara Paul acted on her dream to increase access to the arts. The Marnie Paul Arts Center was incorporated in the summer of 1997 and the organization’s first program of services was initiated in September of that same year.

The Marnie Paul Arts Center’s mission provided differently able individuals in the Austin area with on-going opportunities to experience the expressive arts in a variety of settings ranging from one-on-one therapy to group classes and workshops integrating all individuals. The Marnie Paul Arts Center also is committed to serving as a vital resource to the general public, art professionals, schools, universities, and community groups through efforts to educate and inform.