Imagine Art Center’s (IAC) proposal for the Arts and Youth program aligns with the Cal Arts commitment to equitable arts access and culturally responsive engagement for young people across the state. Located in rural-serving-Porterville—community within the lowest quartiles of the Healthy Places Index—IAC serves historically and systemically underserved population due to geographic isolation, economic hardship, and limited access to arts education. With a mission to make art accessible, we propose to us $25,000 to expand free/low-cost arts programming for youth 5-18, including language learners, justice-impacted, or experiencing poverty. Programs foster agency, cultural pride, and connection through hands-on, community learning led by local artists who reflect the identities of the youth. With no prior direct CAC operating support, IAC is uniquely positioned to bridge barriers while cultivating a new generation of culturally literate, creatively empowered youth.
Founded in 2010 by local artist and educator Rebecca Ybarra, Imagine Art Center emerged from a deep commitment to integrate the arts into the heart of community life. From its inception, the organization has upheld a mission both simple and profound: to ensure that art is accessible, inclusive, and empowering for all individuals—regardless of age, income level, or prior experience. This mission guides every aspect of our programming and informs our belief that art has the capacity to transform not only individual lives, but entire communities.
At the center of our work is a dynamic portfolio of core programs and services designed to respond to the creative, educational, and emotional needs of our community. These offerings foster artistic expression, support emerging and established artists, and create meaningful cultural engagement opportunities. Our programs are grounded in equity, cultural responsiveness, and the belief that creativity is a human right. We collaborate with city agencies, nonprofits, schools, and local businesses to use art as a vehicle for civic engagement, education, and economic development. Through these partnerships, we aim to elevate the role of artists as change agents and to embed creativity into the public sphere in ways that are lasting and inclusive.
Together, these core programs and services reflect Imagine Art Center’s enduring commitment to creativity, community, and compassion. We envision a world where the arts are not a luxury, but a shared resource—one that uplifts individuals, connects neighborhoods, and cultivates a more vibrant and just society.

