Richmond Art Center

Studio EducationSince 1936, the Studio Education Department has been the Richmond Art Centers primary outlet for high-quality, accessible visual arts programming. Through our seven on-site studios dedicated to Fiber Arts, Painting and Drawing 2D/3D media, Ceramics, Glass, Printmaking, Jewelry & Metal Arts and our Youth Studio; we continue to develop and lead diverse and dynamic programs dedicated to Visual Arts Media.This year we have taken important steps toward building a more sustainable model for both our students and our organization to flourish. We are actively recruiting new teaching artists to fill program gaps and thoughtfully expand offerings. A new Studio Coordinator has been formally hired to support programs and operations, as well as to guide and prioritize studio improvements. We also expanded our Studio Access Program to include model drawing sessions, printmaking, glass, and jewelry studios, creating more entry points for artists of all levels. In partnership with staff, we are working toward long-term solutions for critical studio tech needs in printmaking, jewelry, and weaving.Last year, the Richmond Art Center studios welcomed 7,292 students, including 1,289 first-time participants. To promote equitable access, we awarded $14,112.50 in need-based scholarships and employed over 50 teaching artists with a living wage here in Richmond. While class fees support our programs, we remain committed to reducing financial barriers by offering bilingual access, need-based scholarships, Richmond resident and first-time student discounts, accessible memberships, and senior promotions ensuring broad and inclusive community engagement.

Art in the Community (AIC)Youth Programs:Our youth programs remain a cornerstone of our work, fostering creativity, resilience, and connection for young people across Richmond. This past year, we served a total of 1,784 youth through a range of robust programs: 536 students participated in school art tours, 420 in after-school programs, 155 in summer camps, 47 in youth intensives and 626 attendees for our Fall and Spring Family Days. Our summer camps reached record enrollment, while our free youth intensives created vital opportunities for teens and young adults, most from Richmonds highest-risk neighborhoods, to engage in meaningful, creative learning.Looking ahead, we are working to expand our teen intensive programs beyond summer, offering youth dedicated space during the fall and throughout the school year. We are also developing a new Mini Makers drop-in space, where younger children and families can explore artmaking together in a welcoming, creative environment.Community Outreach and Partnerships:Our reach continues to extend beyond the walls of our studios through partnerships with WCCUSD (West Contra Costa Unified School District), RYSE Youth Center, EBCPA (East Bay Center for the Performing Arts), and NIAD (Nurturing Independence Through Artistic Development). Guided by our Community Agreements, these programs foster safe, supportive, and inclusive environments for all.This year, we strengthened community engagement by increasing our presence at tabling events, ensuring that community members receive information and resources where they gather. Additionally, we expanded our rental program to include team-building workshops and private classes, creating new pathways for community groups and organizations to experience the transformative power of art.Together, our Studio Education, Youth Programs, and Community Partnerships continue to play a vital role in fostering mental well-being, social-emotional learning, and stronger community connections, keeping Richmond Art Center true to its mission of making art accessible to all.