Upturn Arts

Upturn Arts is a fun and creative program that teaches children in the New Orleans community to explore and build confidence in themselves as artists. Our mission is to provide “Arts for All”. We believe in providing arts enrichment opportunities for all children, and never turn students away due to financial restraints. Upturn Arts manifested from Hope Stone NOLA, established in 2010 as a satellite project of the Houston-based Hope Stone, Inc. After several years of programming, the organization formally separated from the Houston parent, applying for and receiving 501c3 nonprofit status in June 2014. Upturn Arts provides after school and day-long summer and holiday programming at our main site, NOLA Spaces, opening our doors to all children in the New Orleans community. We also identify schools and community centers without arts education programs and partner to deliver these services. We distinguish ourselves from other arts education programs by offering both on- and off-site programming, using a sliding scale fee model, welcoming all students without auditions, and focusing on individuality and creative expression within our students. For 2016, we aim to increase our year-round reach from 250 to 500 students, where 50% of our students receive free or low-cost arts education. To make this possible, we rely on funding from donors and giving organizations. Skilled master teachers and artists train students in dance, music, theater, improvisation, creative writing, drumming and yoga, providing young participants with an arts education that builds self-esteem, confidence and the skills that children need to be the next generation of creative thinkers and problem solvers. The students also gain a greater knowledge of New Orleans’ rich arts culture and heritage while expanding their own individual creativity and self-expression.