What We Do
Heartistry Creates Intergenerational Connections
“Great things are done by a series of small things brought together” - Vincent Van Gogh
A Mission to Enrich the Lives of Youth & Seniors
Heartistry was first envisioned during the COVID-19 pandemic. Following the loss of my grandfather, a sweet request from his long-term care roommate to keep the art my sister and I had made to brighten the room sparked an idea: seniors should have access to the joyful art created by children.
I had the privilege of participating in a summer internship supported by the City of Durango Lodger’s Tax Arts Funding (Durango Creative District) and SEED Studio, where I learned about the various ways art functions as business. This motivated me to turn my idea into a small, local nonprofit organization, “Heartistry.”
Through free visual arts education, Heartistry encourages young students to create art, always ensuring students have work to take home for themselves or family members. In addition, students are encouraged to share that creativity with others by donating additional works. Each group of students is linked with a community partner, where their unique works of art are made available free to seniors.
What We’ve Achieved
Heartistry has provided free visual arts education to more than 100 local students
Heartistry meets students where they’re at, both literally and with arts education; adapting materials whenever needed
A core value is building sustainability into our programs, including the use of repurposed and recycled materials whenever possible
Heartistry has donated more than 50 pieces of curated children’s artwork to local seniors
Heartistry connects with programs that serve seniors in the community, at their homes, and in public spaces
We have created valuable partnerships with local nonprofits and businesses to expand our programs
