Upturn Arts

Imagine a child standing on stage, singing a song, performing a dance, presenting their art, then taking a bow. They smile, feel proud, and grow taller with newfound confidence. That upturn can never be taken away. It will live on in that child forever. At Upturn Arts, we help children explore creativity, find their voice, and leave empowered with new life skills. When school is out, we are in, offering "arts for all" in a safe, nurturing space. This year marks Upturn Arts' 15th anniversary of providing accessible arts education to New Orleans children ages 4-17 through after-school, holiday, and summer programs.

Our goal is to provide equity in arts education to New Orleans children no matter their socio-economic status or artistic ability. In 2018, we expanded offerings for students aging out of our program, resulting in the Teen Leadership program, providing mentorship, professional workforce training, and paid internship opportunities. In 2019, we began partnering with professional art therapists to increase our capacity to serve children with special needs through individualized support, general on-site intervention, and a tailored training model for staff. In 2023, over 6,000 free meals were served during our 12-week summer session ensuring that children who rely on receiving free and reduced meals during school also had access to healthy and nutritious meals during the summer. We have grown tremendously, serving 800 children each year with an additional 50 children currently on our waitlist to attend our summer program. With your help, together we can offer a safe space when school is out, and a creative place for children to develop critical thinking skills that will benefit them both in school and in life.

Testimonials

"Without the art therapists, my child would not have had enough functional support to be fully included with so many neurotypical peers. I am forever grateful." - UA Parent

"I can be the best me when I am doing art here." Aiden, age 7

"At Upturn Arts, I've learned many different types of leadership skills, such as clear communication with my friends, teamwork, decision-making, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Upturn Arts has helped me grow as a person and gives me an outlet to express myself through art." - Lily, 15 years old