The Neurodivergent Empowerment Institute (NEI) announced the grand opening of its gallery on Sunday, December 14, 2025. Located at 2200 2nd Ave S, Suite 134, St. Petersburg, the event will feature renowned Florida artist Ashton Howard, whose ocean-inspired artworks are designed to enhance the sensory experience NEI aims to create.
Ashton Howard, a native of the Gulf Coast and currently based in Pensacola, has gained recognition for his light-saturated paintings and mixed media works that embody the energy and serenity of coastal landscapes. His pieces not only reflect his personal connection to the sea but also resonate with a growing audience drawn to their immersive and calming qualities.
Angela Fisher, PhD, the founder of NEI, expressed her enthusiasm about showcasing Howard’s work. “Ashton’s art serves as an invitation to breathe,” she stated. “It captures those fleeting moments when light, water, and sky converge, mirroring the internal balance many of our clients seek.”
The gallery is specially curated to accommodate neurodivergent and trauma-impacted individuals. It will feature soft lighting, a spacious layout, and a low-stimulation viewing option, ensuring visitors can engage with the art in a calming environment. The artworks, including Howard’s, are designed as ‘visual resting places’ that align with NEI’s mission of fostering self-regulation and reconnection through art.
In addition to Howard’s work, the gallery will feature artists whose work explores themes of identity, emotional regulation, and personal transformation. Some pieces will be included in a silent auction, with proceeds benefiting NEI’s Neurodivergent Scholarship Fund, which aims to improve access to evaluations, accommodations, and integrative care for neurodivergent individuals.
The grand opening is the centerpiece of “Celebrate & Connect: A Grand Opening Wellness Event,” a full-day event featuring expert discussions on key topics, including autism, metabolic health, and trauma recovery. Attendees can also enjoy live music, wellness demonstrations, and designated sensory-friendly rest areas.
As NEI opens its doors, it reinforces its commitment to empowering neurodivergent individuals through community engagement, creative expression, and healing environments.
