Our long-awaited program in NYC!

We are just thrilled to share our long-awaited pilot program in New York City, harnessing the power of over three decades of AFH’s mission and business model founded in Boston.

“It has been incredible to finally have a space to launch AFH in NYC this summer alongside AFH Alumna Mattaya Fitts and—at last—meet the teens and physically be in the space together!” says Hannah Fallon, AFH’s Project Director for our NYC pilot and seasoned designer and former youth mentor in AFH Boston’s 3D Design Studio.

The summer 2023 inaugural cohort for the launch of AFH in NYC.

Nestled in Bushwick, a neighborhood full of artists and artist spaces, and covered in murals, AFH has found a center and community that reflects our mission and creative work.

AFH Executive Director Anna Yu and NYC Project Director, Hannah Fallon.

Building lobby where AFH has its new NYC Studio.

Why NYC? AFH’s Executive Director, Anna Yu, explains, “In many ways, NYC is overflowing with arts and culture, especially in Brooklyn, with a uniquely diverse perspective and an unparalleled community of artists, designers, innovators, business, commerce in the most populated city in this country. The opportunities and possibilities are unlimited for Artists For Humanity and for the impact we can have on the youth and the city!" 

With 17 enterprising teens employed thus far (as we continue recruitment to meet our goal of 20 for this summer), the focus is on building foundational skills before moving on to client work, the core of the AFH mission—with teens working in collaboration with professional mentors on commissioned jobs for businesses, organizations and on the public stage. 

Fallon elaborated, “The teens will learn color theory, light and shadow, and perspective. We will look at a lot of art, discuss what we see, share what we like and why. Teens will dive into painting, begin to develop their individual style and explore the concept of mural making. Our first job—design and execute a mural on our very own interior studio wall!” 

First days for AFH NYC teen artists.

What comes next? The summer pilot will provide an opportunity for us to discover what is unique about NYC and NYC teens, and use the learnings to shape and develop our program. From there, the sky's the limit, as the team leans into client work and shares their voice with the community at-large.

Learn more about AFH’s mission and history and our creative services.