Our mission is to nurture and invest in artists, culture, and the arts throughout Santa Cruz County. We envision a community where artists have the resources they need to thrive and where everyone can experience a full range of creative expression.
We are the leading provider of arts education, offering school performances, residencies, training, and after-school programs. We provide over $220,000 in grants and support more than 300 Open Studios artists, 11,000 youth, and dozens of arts organizations and artists.
Because investing in the arts is essential for youth, we are preparing the next generation of creative thinkers and problem solvers with your support. Through our arts education programs — SPECTRA and Mariposa Arts — 11,000 young people will learn to dream big, speak up, and turn mistakes into opportunities.
Your contribution ensures that youth develop vital life skills and experience the joy and connection that art brings to their lives. Help build a stronger community, one inspired kid at a time.
Mariposa Arts transformed me by teaching me personal responsibility and gave me the opportunity to meet talented people and teach students from different schools. I’ve learned a lot since I've been here, and am very grateful for it.
Flor, High School Student Teacher, Watsonville
