Our Story
Artsy Kids emerged from a profound commitment to address a crucial gap in our society—the accessibility of art for children, specially in inner city communities, where art is viewed as easily disposable and unnecessary. Our primary objective is to open doors to the world of art, nurturing creativity in young minds.
Established in 2016, Artsy Kids initially took shape as a weekend workshop, inviting kids to engage in step-by-step painting classes. In just a few short years, our initiative has blossomed into a comprehensive platform offering a diverse range of programs, including after-school classes, self-care workshops, and active participation in school and community events. We’ve partnered with 20+ schools, and many corporate partners, including programs with the City of LA and LA County.
Through a generous grant from LA County, in our 7th year we were able to open our first physical location where we offer free programs and workshops encompassing all of the arts. Our core mission revolves around empowering children to harness creativity as a powerful tool for self-care.
Mission
Our core mission revolves around empowering children to harness creativity as a powerful tool for self-care.
Values
We passionately believe in the profound healing power of art. We see a world where children, touched by this power, seamlessly integrate it into the fabric of their lives, utilizing it as a resilient tool to nurture their emotional and mental well-being.
In pursuit of our mission, we advocate for universal access to art for every child, irrespective of background or circumstance. We champion the idea that art should stand as a fundamental priority within every community, weaving itself into the very essence of societal values.
We aspire to foster community and family bonding through purposeful events. Through these initiatives, we aim to not only democratize access to art but also create spaces where communities come together, forging connections that enrich lives and cultivate a shared appreciation for the transformative potential of art. In doing so, we strive to build a future where the healing essence of art is not just a privilege, but a universal and empowering right for every child and community.
Our Founder
VANESSA RIVERA, FOUNDER
When my father passed away in 2009, I struggled to articulate my emotions verbally. For about a year, I remained silent on the topic, unable to find the right words. It was during this time that I discovered solace in painting. Through art, I found a secure channel to release difficult emotions, stress, and anything else weighing on my mind. Growing up, art wasn't given much emphasis in my school, household, or community. I had no idea it could serve as such a powerful outlet.
I decided to prioritize art in my adult life. I studied art pursued studies at USC Roski School of Fine Art, where I learned art history, critical studies, and technique. Here, I came to understand the profound significance of art in both our culture and mental well-being.
Life inevitably presents us with challenges, and it's crucial for individuals to learn how to navigate their emotions and mental health. I firmly believe that painting possesses the remarkable ability to inspire, heal, and empower lives.
For these reasons, I've made it my personal mission to introduce children to the myriad emotional, mental, financial, and social benefits of art. By doing so, I hope to equip them with invaluable tools to navigate life's ups and downs with resilience and creativity.