Keeping the environment clean, creating beautiful art and helping people with disabilities go hand-in-hand at a nonprofit organization in Springfield, MO.

Art Inspired provides secure document destruction that employs people with developmental disabilities who turn the waste into unique works of art, such as picture frames, vases, holiday decorations, greeting cards and stationery. The artworks are sold to the public at the gallery in downtown Springfields entertainment district. The work also can be purchased online soon here.

Along with purchasing finished pieces, the gallery offers hands-on sessions where patrons purchase items and decorate them using a variety of materials available at the gallery. Tours showcasing the process of turning waste paper into art also are available.

Since the gallery opened in August 2012, it has hosted field trips, corporate retreats and other events. It also participates in First Friday Art Walk, an evening event featuring nearly 30 downtown businesses and galleries the first Friday of each month.

Art Inspired got its start thanks to a grant from Abilities First, an organization that helps people with developmental disabilities acquire the services and support they need. The goal for Art Inspired is to become self-sustaining within three years. If that happens, it would be the first business of its type operating on its own in the country.

The gallery at 310 S. Campbell Ave., is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday. For more information, call (417) 868-8084.

For information about First Friday Art Walk, visit here. To learn more about other things to see and do in Springfield, visit here.

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