The Black Arts Foundation supports Artists of Color

by way of four initiatives:

Art Therapy. BAF creates events and classes that allow individuals to soothe and heal by creating their own art.  It involves various art forms like drawing, painting, sculpting, theater, film, and music. Guided by trained professionals, Art Therapy changes lives. It boosts neural connections across both hemispheres of the brain, improves cognitive skills like memory and problem-solving, reduces stress, lowers cortisol, releases dopamine for happiness, promotes mindfulness, and enhances the brain’s ability to reorganize (neuroplasticity).  

Art Education. The mastery of art is less of a government priority in the U.S. than in many other countries. Black students have seen 49% reduction in public school arts education since the 80s, while white students have faced essentially no reduction. This results in a more “Darwinian” or “sink or swim” environment for U.S. arts, relying on private sector success rather than stable public subsidies. BAF seeks to bridge this gap, by providing college arts scholarships to Black and Brown students in the arts. The first of many initiatives is the Black Arts Foundation Hampton University Endowment. Another initiative focuses on exposing underserved youth to the arts through donated tickets to arts events.

Art Exhibitions. BAF creates events designed to highlight the work of emerging Artists of Color, creating unique arts experiences in communities throughout the country.  BAF exhibitions benefit communities by boosting local economies, fostering social connection, sparking dialogue on important issues, celebrating culture, and most importantly supporting the emergence of local artists. 

Art Festivals. BAF festivals boost communities by strengthening social bonds, sparking economic growth, fostering education and empathy, improving mental well-being, and preserving cultural heritage, creating shared experiences that bring diverse people together for collective pride and understanding. The first festival initiative of BAF is the Virginia Black Film Festival, an annual event showcasing the work of exceptional emerging filmmakers of Color, including multiple educational seminars and a star-studded awards gala.

Support BAF. Our work is made possible by generous donations from people like you. Your donation will fund college scholarships, youth art education programs, art therapy programs, exhibitions, and festivals, all designed to elevate emerging artists and to empower the next generation of artist to Dream in Color.