ART Helps To Build
A Better Future
ART Helps To Build
About Us
Our Mission
Art for Future is dedicated to breaking down barriers and making art accessible to everyone. We believe that artistic expression is more than just a form of self-actualization—it’s a vital part of psychological well-being, self-discovery, and community building. Unfortunately, art is often perceived as a luxury reserved for those who are comfortable and have the means to explore it. This leaves underprivileged and underrepresented groups—such as the homeless, special education students, hospitalized children, and foster care youth—excluded from experiencing the transformative power of art.
Why Art Matters
At Art for Future, we recognize that while art may be placedat the top of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, it can profoundly impact all levels of human experience. Art can bridge gaps between communities, promote healing, and empower individuals to share their unique voices and perspectives. By providing access to art education and resources, we enable these voices to be heard and foster diversity in creative expression.
If art is only produced by those who are comfortable,
able-bodied, and financially stable, it becomes exclusive, selective, and less universal. The world of art loses its essence when it fails to represent diverse voices. By equipping individuals from all walks of life to express
themselves artistically, we ensure that the future of art is vibrant, inclusive, and full of perspectives that resonate with broader audiences.
OUR TEAM
Sarah Cao
CEO / Co-founder
Sarah Cao is the visionary leader behind Art for Future. With a passion for promoting accessible art education and creating opportunities for underrepresented communities, Sarah leads the organization’s strategic direction and long-term planning. Her dedication to inclusivity and empowerment through art has been instrumental in shaping Art for Future’s mission and impact.
Keylee Cheng
Program Director / Co-founder
Keylee Cheng oversees all programs at Art for Future, ensuring that each initiative effectively reaches its intended audience and creates meaningful experiences. As a co-founder, Keylee’s commitment to using art as a tool for social change is reflected in her work. She designs and manages programs like the Artist Talk Series and collaborative mural projects, nurturing the next generation of diverse artists and leaders.
Jade Wu
Associate Program Director
Jade Wu plays a key role in supporting and managing Art for Future’s diverse range of programs. As the Associate Program Director, she collaborates closely with the Program Director to implement community art initiatives, organize events, and connect with artists and participants. Jade’s enthusiasm for bringing creative opportunities to underrepresented groups ensures that Art for Future’s programs remain impactful and inclusive.
Team members
Michelle Chen
Mandy Luo
Angela Zhong
Audrey Zhao
Erica Hu
Cindy Xia
Mike Zhao
Chaoran Zou
Xiaorui Wang
Joey Wang
Ksenia Tretiakova
Nektarios Kanakis
OUR PROGRAMS
Art for Future’s initiatives are designed to uplift communities and inspire positive change through the power of art. Our programs range from artist talks and interviews to exhibitions and collaborative art projects, each focused on engaging diverse groups and making a meaningful impact. Here’s a look at some of our recent programs:
In October 2023, we organized “Art for Hope”, an art exhibition and fundraising event to support the victims of the 2023 Maui wildfire. Our dedicated team spent a month planning every detail of the event—curating artwork, setting up the exhibition space, designing an online flyer, and promoting the exhibition on social media platforms.
Communities Art Mural Project
We partnered with the NGO ‘California Teens Anti Animal-Cruelty’ for an inspiring art mural project. Under the guidance of our team, a group of 12 young artists worked together to create a vibrant mural that highlights the importance of animal welfare and environmental stewardship. This project not only showcased the artistic talents of these youth but also promoted a message of compassion and advocacy for the protection of animals.
Artist Talk and Interview Series - Conversations with Dr. Lyu
We were honored to host a special artist talk featuring the renowned Chinese artist Peng Lyu. Peng Lyu is celebrated for his mastery in traditional Chinese landscape painting, and during his talk, he shared insights into the techniques, cultural heritage, and philosophy behind his artwork. This event provided an invaluable learning opportunity for participants to connect with and learn from a distinguished figure in the art world.
Join Us in Creating the Future of Art
We invite you to join us in building a world where everyone has the opportunity to experience and create art. Whether through volunteering, donating, or advocating for our mission, you can help us nurture the next generation of artists and leaders.
Art for Future—because the future of art should include everyone.