YAYA

YAYA creates opportunities for young artists in New Orleans to develop their voice, earn income, and build a future through the arts.

For over 35 years, YAYA has been a space where creativity meets opportunity—where young people develop their artistic voice, build confidence, and gain real-world experience through visual arts and creative workforce training. Today, that work continues to grow and evolve as we deepen our impact and reimagine what’s possible for the next generation.

In 2025, YAYA served 1,588 youth and adults through direct programming, workshops, field trips, and public events across the city. Through our Teen Guild and Urban Heroes programs, young artists gained hands-on experience in glass, ceramics, painting, and mixed media while developing portfolios and learning how to market and sell their work.

928 community members connected with YAYA through exhibitions, festivals, and public events, and 15 commissioned projects provided paid, real-world opportunities for young artists to lead creative work across the city.

This spring, young artists are actively creating, experimenting, and growing through in-studio classes, guest artist residencies, and collaborative projects.

As we look ahead, YAYA is investing in strengthening programs, expanding access, and building sustainable opportunities for young artists to thrive as creators, entrepreneurs, and leaders.

When you support YAYA, you help young artists access materials, mentorship, and paid opportunities that build real pathways in the arts. Your gift directly supports programs where youth develop skills, earn income, and contribute to the creative and cultural life of New Orleans.

Testimonials

"I was amazed by the talent YAYA artists brought to our commissioned mural. Hiring YAYA not only supports young artists but also amplifies their voices in a powerful way." - Customer

"I learn many things at YAYA, not only art techniques, but also character qualities and outside work experience. Whether it is how to make a paperweight out of glass or learning how to critique artwork, I am able to grow as a person." - YAYA Teen Artist

"The thing that makes YAYA different is the peer mentorship. It is something you don't find in other places." - YAYA Teen Artist

"At school, everyone learns the same thing. At YAYA, there 's not really a limit to what you can do. " -- YAYA Teen Artist