Stay Arts

Mission & Vision

Stay Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that engages, connects and empowers communities in Southeast Los Angeles through the arts, creative exploration and cultural expression.

Our Mission

To provide access to space, participation and visibility in the arts for local artists, youth and families through community-led exhibitions, workshops and creative experiences.

Our vision

For the individual

We envision a future where every individual has access to the arts and is empowered to discover, explore and apply their innate creativity.

For our community

We envision a future where our region becomes a unique epicenter of the arts, influenced and shaped by an identity that is reflective of the people – past, present and emerging – that live, work and create locally.

For humanity

We envision a future where the arts, culture and creativity are integrated into the fabric of how society operates to nurture and sustain collective well being.

Children participate in a mask-making workshop in partnership with Polaris Castillo at the Downey Dia De Los Muertos Festival.

Children participate in a mask-making workshop in partnership with Polaris Castillo at the Downey Dia De Los Muertos Festival.

Beliefs

  • We believe that creativity is innate to the human experience. Like a muscle, creativity must be exercised to remain active.

  • We believe that art is an essential tool that sustains the effectiveness and health of our creativity. Access to the arts provides a meaningful avenue to improved quality of life through creative expression.

  • We believe that the arts connect and empower community members to bridge differences, create innovative solutions for current issues and actively work towards a more vibrant, just and whole society.

  • We believe it is imperative to highlight, share and document the artistry and creativity of the City of Downey and Southeast LA as a contribution to the shared human story.

Art is vital

Our space and programs would not be possible without you. Help support our mission by making a one-time or recurring contribution.