Our Mission and History

OUR HISTORY

Retired art teachers, artists and interested benefactors formed the Student Art Fund in 2006 as a committee of the nonprofit Santa Barbara Art Association, founded in 1952

At that time, our efforts were a response to the perpetual irregular and vulnerable funding of art classes in the public junior high schools and high schools of Carpinteria, Goleta, and Santa Barbara, California.

“Thank you again for your hard work and generous efforts to keep our art programs healthy and our supply shelves stocked in a time when art budgets have all but disappeared. We really appreciate your thoughtfulness and generosity.”  –  Art Teacher, Dos Pueblos High School

OUR MISSION

Since that time, Student Art Fund goals have expanded, to: provide support, opportunity and encouragement to young artists.

“Our visit to Otis Art School was fun and inspiring. It definitely changed the way I look at art. We are so grateful to you for making this possible.” —Julia, high school student

“Thank you for your generous donation to the students of S.B.H.S. art classes. It was timely and tangible. The paints and brushes will be used after Spring Break by the 180 students in my classes. For Joy! I appreciate the work you do to make this possible.” – Art Teacher, Santa Barbara High School

OUR COMMITTEE

We are composed entirely of volunteers whose experience is in area schools, art classes, art media, curricula, art supplies, motivation and with young artists.

Because of the sponsorship of the nonprofit Santa Barbara Art Association, the SAF needs no office or salaries and incurs few expenses. Consequently, donations can go directly to work for young people.

We strive to know every art teacher in the local area on an informal basis and to stay informed of area schools, art curricula, and the current needs of young people.

We supplement art supplies where needed, provide event transportation, sponsor student art exhibitions and provide for individual student and teacher projects of merit.

“Many, many thanks for what you did for us this year. The students will be able to do ‘scratchboard’ projects in a few weeks, thanks to you. There wasn’t enough money to do this before.” —Art Teacher, La Colina Junior High

“Very impressive what a small group of determined people can accomplish! Many thanks to all of you!”  - Art Teacher, San Marcos High School

This post has been viewed 1112 times.