Imani M. (23)
Art & Entrepreneurship Alumni and Former Studio Assistant
“Before coming to Artistic Noise, I got caught up in a situation that led me into the court system. While on probation, I asked my probation officer if I could participate in something creative, because drawing had always been my strength.
When I first arrived, I was shy and unsure of what to expect. But I was welcomed right away. People appreciated me, and I quickly began to feel comfortable.
My first real breakthrough moment was during the mural project at City College. It also felt incredible to earn a paycheck doing something I love. Creating art and getting paid for it is an amazing experience.
I took a break after becoming a mother, but I missed making art and being part of a community. I came back because I needed that space.
About a year ago, I experienced a domestic violence situation that led to another court case. Artistic Noise supported me through it. The art therapist accompanied me to court, helped with transportation, and provided resources. She even wrote a recommendation to the judge. My case was ultimately dismissed.
I joined Artistic Noise when I was 16. Now I’m 22, and my life has changed significantly. I’ve shown my work in galleries, sold pieces, and grown as an artist and person. This place feels like home.
Even now, after graduating and being promoted, I still want to be here. It’s a place where you learn from others and continue to grow.
Thanks to Artistic Noise, my future feels brighter, stronger, and full of possibilities. I’m grateful to have a space where I can express myself, be heard, and continue creating.”
IMPACT STORIES
Bishop M. (28)
Art & Entrepreneurship Alumni and Former Alumni Artist in Residence
“Before joining Artistic Noise, my life was very unstable. I was in and out of juvenile group homes, in and out of court, and constantly getting into trouble.
I first connected with Artistic Noise through an art therapist who visited me on Rikers Island. I was interested when I heard it was a community of young people making art. When I found out you could get paid to make art, I was fully on board. I decided to check it out once I was released.
When I first joined, I didn’t like talking to people. The program helped me build my social skills. The staff went above and beyond and showed me that not everyone is out to harm you. There are people who genuinely care.
Earning a regular paycheck felt good. It gave me something to look forward to and a place to connect with people who shared my interests. I began to see real growth in myself.
I sold my first piece of artwork at my first show with Artistic Noise. An art therapist from Rikers Island came and bought it. That meant a lot. People who had seen me at my lowest were now seeing me doing better.
Becoming the first Alumni Artist in Residence at Artistic Noise was a major milestone. During my residency, I met Kate Fowle, former Director of MoMA PS1. She gave me valuable advice and introduced me to artist Jared Owens. Now I’m his mentee and work out of his studio at the World Trade Center.
Without Artistic Noise, my life could have gone in a much more negative direction. Many people don’t have access to supportive spaces, resources, or even basic needs like food, which makes it difficult to focus on creative work. I’m grateful I found this community.”
Grace S. (22)
Art & Entrepreneurship Participant and Studio Assistant
“During my senior year of high school, I got into the wrong crowd. I was feeling really lost. I didn’t have a community or an outlet, and I was dealing with personal issues that led to heavy drug use. I was arrested and sentenced to four years of probation. It was my probation officer who connected me with Artistic Noise.
On my first day, I didn’t know what to expect, but everyone was so welcoming. Every project we did felt therapeutic. The moment I realized how much I enjoyed being there was my first art show. Seeing all the work we created as a community, and having people I didn’t know come in to support us, was incredibly healing.
This job gave me confidence during a time when my life felt unstable. It provided a sense of consistency. I needed someone to say, “It’s going to be OK,” and to connect me with resources to move forward.
Although I was originally sentenced to four years of probation, I was able to get off two years early with the help of Artistic Noise. The art therapist stayed in communication with my probation officer, sharing updates on my progress. That support, along with having a job and actively participating in my life and community, made a significant difference.
I love the art we make and the energy of the space. It’s supportive and joyful. We laugh together, and it feels safe. The staff is welcoming and knowledgeable, and I’ve learned so much about different types of art. I’ve also made great friends here. It feels like a second family.”