By Yolisa Bam, Case Facilitator
A Tapestry of Texture and Emotion
At first glance, Joanna’s art is a swirl of textures—fabric, paint, torn paper, and found objects—all intricately layered into bold, emotional pieces. Take a closer look, and you’ll find something even more powerful: a story of perseverance, and an artist turning her dreams into reality with the help of a devoted support system.
From Childhood Sketches to Gallery Walls
Joanna, known by her Compass SLS staff and family as “JoJo” tells a story through every piece. “She is a really prolific working artist”, says her mother, Dee, who introduced JoJo to art early on in life. Over the years, Jojo has created hundreds of pieces inspired by family dinners, nature walks, and childhood memories. Her work has been featured in galleries and sold online, with admirers drawn to her ability to translate feeling into form.
Inspired by Life, Fueled by Connection
But JoJo’s journey isn’t one of talent alone. Her life as a working, celebrated artist with a love of music, dance and socializing has been enhanced by a powerful partnership: her family and her Compass SLS team.
A Circle of Support Behind the Scenes
Behind the scenes, JoJo’s Compass SLS Life Guides — who she works with daily to maintain her independence, play a vital role in helping her fulfill her destiny. They assist with the everyday logistics that allow her creativity to flourish, from supporting her in her day-to-day routine, planning schedules to coordinating her transport to gallery showings and more. “They’re a big part of how JoJo gets to live the life she chooses,” says her father Steve Beal.
Where Passion Meets Purpose: Creative Growth Art Center
JoJo now spends her days with her peers and is immersed in her work the Creative Growth Art Center in Oakland California. Each creation is more than just a piece of art—it’s a symbol of what’s possible when ability is supported by community, honor, and the right team. Jojo’s participation in the art community showcases “the boundless creativity and impact of artists on cultural dialogues in the Bay Area and beyond” says the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.
Dreaming Out Loud, One Layer at a Time
Through dedication, creative passion, and a circle of support that believes in her completely, Joanna Beal is showing the world what it means to have dreams, direction and fulfill her destiny—layer by beautiful layer.