Empowering LA Youth Through Painting

Access to tech and creative industry employment

Pilot or new project, program, or initiative (testing or implementing a new idea)

We recognize that many young people in Los Angeles lack access to high-quality arts education and mentorship, which are crucial for fostering creativity, developing technical skills, and pursuing successful careers in the arts. This gap often limits their opportunities for personal growth and professional advancement, particularly in underserved communities. By providing accessible and comprehensive painting instruction, combined with entrepreneurial insights, we aim to bridge this gap, empower youth, and contribute to a more inclusive and vibrant creative economy in Los Angeles.

Our project will provide accessible, high-quality painting classes to youth in Los Angeles, focusing on skill development, creativity, and career readiness. Leveraging over three years of experience as AirBnB virtual instructors and two decades in the arts and design fields, our program combines practical painting instruction with mentorship in creative career development. We will offer workshops, virtual sessions, and one-on-one mentorship to ensure personalized guidance for each participant. Additionally, a portion of our proceeds will be donated to the Snap Foundation, supporting broader community initiatives that align with our vision of an inclusive and dynamic arts landscape. Through this comprehensive approach, we aim to empower young artists, enhance their future career prospects, and contribute to the cultural and economic vibrancy of Los Angeles.

If our work is successful, Los Angeles County will be transformed into a thriving hub of young, diverse artistic talent. Youth will have greater access to high-quality arts education, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to pursue creative careers. This will lead to a more inclusive and dynamic arts community, reflecting the rich diversity of our region. The enhanced creative economy will generate new job opportunities, foster innovation, and position Los Angeles as an international leader in the arts. Our collaboration with the Snap Foundation will further amplify community engagement and support, creating a ripple effect of positive change throughout the county.

We'll define success by the number of youth engaged and completing our painting courses, tracked through enrollment and completion rates. Improvement in participants' painting skills and artistic knowledge will be measured through pre- and post-assessments. We'll track participants' progression into further education or creative careers. Community impact will be gauged by the amount donated to the Snap Foundation and feedback on inclusivity and program impact. Long-term outcomes will be assessed through alumni tracking and increased diversity in the local arts scene.