Painting the Future is a passion project that was fueled by the desire to provide artmaking opportunities to displaced children in response to Russia’s full-scale war on Ukraine and conceived by the work of American humanitarians alongside Ukrainians. These art workshops provided an opportunity for children to express themselves, process their experiences – beyond words – and find solace in their creativity. Our mission is to give displaced children art materials, guidance and encouragement to find joy in colors and light and to empower local artists to lead these workshops.

As we spent more time with internally displaced children in Ukraine, we realized the power of art as a phenomenal therapeutic tool that provided a powerful outlet. Engaging in the creation process enables one to connect fully with oneself and the present moment. It allows the processing of thoughts and feelings. It provides creative freedom to imagine and transform. We knew that we wanted to provide that and more for kids who have been through unimaginable hardship.

We started organized art programs led by experienced Ukrainian artists and teachers that could guide these children through art activities like painting, drawing, and sketching. We saw how artmaking was able to transport these children from their hardships and provide them with moments of hope, peace, and happiness. After the first art workshop, we knew we immediately knew we wanted to continue making an impact for displaced children and to provide hope for brighter days, so we formed the US 501(c)(3) nonprofit Painting the Future, Inc. that can help serve this purpose for a lifetime.

Proceeds raised from the art exhibitions or auctions will be put towards the continuation of art workshops and tangible items that we can purchase for children’s essential needs at shelters, hospitals, or orphanages. We have found that the needs of children can fall through the cracks so we want to be able to assist with essential items at this shelters that we identify while conducting our art workshops. Some of the children have donated their own artwork to help further this cause. The response is heartwarming to see so many children that have already gone through so much beam with joy at the thought of helping other children.

We carry out this mission by directly sponsoring art workshops and creative programming through trusted partner organizations working on the ground with children and families.

Our partners

Guided by our mission, Painting the Future partners with organizations serving children affected by conflict and displacement. Through these partnerships, we sponsor and fund art workshops that provide safe, creative spaces for expression and healing.