Arts in Motion

Arts in Motion Studio WM is a nonprofit organisation in Grand Rapids serving the community and individuals with disabilities through classes in creative arts. The studio was founded by Delight Lester, who started Living Light Dance Company in 1986 when a friend struggled to find an arts programme for her child with Down Syndrome. At that time, no art programmes in the Grand Rapids area were designed specifically for children with limitations. Arts in Motion has grown from this single vision into a full creative offering that views the arts as an important means of self-expression accessible to all individuals, without regard for physical or mental limitation.

Classes in music, drama, dance and fine art are tailored to instruct people who are physically and mentally disabled, with a focus on creative expression rather than refining technique alone. Classes help develop coordination, communication and other skills alongside the therapeutic benefits the arts provide. The studio offers both a structured Day Programme (9am–3pm on weekdays during summer 2026, running $30 per day) and individual classes, including one-on-one instruction in singing, guitar, ukulele, beginner piano, music recreation, dance and art at available times.

Summer 2026 classes run from the week of June 15 through the week of August 17, with tuition at $110 for the summer session. Weekly offerings include Art, Ballet, Songwriting, Dance, Music, Project Art, Photography, Cardio Drum, Disney Dance, Movement Fitness, Singing, Aging and Movement, Drumming and Breakdancing. Guest instructors bring additional styles: Salsa Dance with Kate, Lindy Hop with Sarah Beth, and Drum classes with Josh. A Summer Passport programme lets you explore art forms from around the world for $50, covering classes in India, Cuba, New York, France, Poland, Senegal, Venezuela and Mexico.

Living Light Dance Company, founded in 1989, is the studio's flagship performance ensemble. Performers represent a variety of individuals with disabilities including autism, Down Syndrome and physical challenges. Each dancer finds dance a valuable means of self-expression and joy. Many dance styles are represented in performance, from ballet to hip-hop, with music drawing on ethnic, classical, Celtic and pop sources. Living Light performs regularly throughout Kent County and at festivals and conferences statewide.

The studio is located in the East Hills neighbourhood of Grand Rapids in the Backport building. All new participants must meet with a team member and the executive director prior to enrolment to ensure the right level of support. Scholarships are available, and art kits can be delivered to your home. Virtual class participation is also offered.

When you first connect with Arts in Motion, you'll schedule an interview with the team and executive director to discuss your needs and interests before participating. Classes run 50 minutes to allow for cleaning and room changes. The studio offers group classes, private instruction and a full-day programme depending on what suits you.

The studio is led by Founder Delight Lester, Executive Director Lisa Glover and Program Director Molly Boughner-Weatherbie. The teaching staff includes Wren Burns, Jodie Dilno, Joshua Dunigan, Nate Kettle, Ken Keck, Julian Arpin-Cortez, Riley Teunis, Sierra Sky Baker and Meg Johnson. Guest artists include Sarah Beth McLellan (dancer and teacher), Janeil Foy (breaker and artist) and Rusmel Mora.

The studio specializes in adaptive instruction and welcomes all individuals, tailoring classes to meet each person's unique needs and level of support.