Our Story
Artsy Kids was founded in 2016 out of a deep commitment to bridge a critical gap in arts accessibility for children—particularly in inner-city communities where creative expression is often undervalued or overlooked. The organization began as a small weekend workshop offering step-by-step painting classes, providing a welcoming space for children to explore art freely and confidently.
Over the years, Artsy Kids has grown into a dynamic creative platform serving more than 32,000 children through after-school programs, community partnerships, library workshops, and summer camps. Each year, the organization engages approximately 8,000 children.
With the support of LA County, Artsy Kids opened its first dedicated studio space in 2024, expanding access to free and low-cost programs that celebrate all forms of artistic expression. Today, Artsy Kids partners with more than 80 community organizations annually, continuing to grow its reach while staying rooted in its mission:
to empower children to harness creativity as a tool for self-care, confidence, and connection.
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.