In 1998 Chip Hunter founded Art Share Los Angeles. At the time, the core mission was to use art as a tool to support and assist lower-income populations and to supplement the arts educational needs in Los Angeles. The organization acquired a building, which caused rapid growth, notable achievements and recognition nationally.
Art Share established a fruitful relationship with Los Angeles Unified School District, the Los Angeles Judicial System, the Department of Economic Development, the Los Angeles City Council, and many other entities through out Los Angeles County.
In 2000 the construction on our building began becoming the only 100% affordable housing building in the Arts District. Providing 30 units in this neighborhood has helped to preserve the population of artists through the gentrification that we are facing in 2019.
Soon after the establishment of the nonprofit, programs were developed to support the many neighboring cities and communities such as East Los Angeles and Compton:
- BLAST (Building Language and Art Skills Together): Increasing the speed of learning and retention of ESL students.
- DEPTH (Diversity Empowerment Programs That Heal): Art submersion for youth to see, hear, touch, smell and taste other cultures resulting in an appreciation and understanding of all cultures.
Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard became an advocate for Art Share’s mission and supported us by introducing our organization to funders and change makers, notably Tipper Gore, David Bowie and Iman, to grow our mission nationally.
In 2001, the national tragedy 9-11 occurred shifting the founders attention to the East Coast to be with family and friends during this trying time. The hope for national expansion was put on hold.
This year, Art Share Los Angeles celebrates 21 years of supporting artists and our community by giving them access to space, tools, resources and ART! We thank Chip Hunter for his service and vision in creating such a magical space where art flourishes.
