Grantee Database
Scarab Creative Arts
Grant Year
2026-27
Grant Program
Impact Projects
Award Amount
$17,500.00
Project Description
With support from the California Arts Council, Scarab Creative Arts will deliver hands-on visual arts workshops for historically underserved communities with limited access to arts programming. California-based teaching artists will lead structured, hands-on sessions with demonstrations and guided practice that support active learning in a range of visual arts media, including ceramics (wheel and hand-building), collage, painting, special effects makeup, and journaling.
Programs will be developed in collaboration with community members, shaping themes that reflect local interests and lived experiences. Activities will emphasize skill-building, creative exploration, and self-expression for participants of all ages.
To reduce barriers to participation, programming will be offered within neighborhoods through community events and shared public spaces, as well as at our facility. Participants will receive information about studio workshop scholarship opportunities.
Organization Summary
Scarab Creative Arts operates through an integrated model that supports artists, engages the public, and advances our mission of expanding access to the arts.
Shared Studio Space
Our shared studio provides working artists with access to equipment, facilities, and a collaborative environment. Member artists develop their practices in a community setting, with many operating their primary creative businesses from the Scarab studio while contributing to a self-sustaining artistic community.
Gallery Exhibitions
Our gallery hosts monthly rotating exhibitions featuring diverse artistic voices, including emerging and established artists, community groups, and themed shows. Programming includes exhibitions highlighting regional diversity, outreach exhibitions with local partners, and exhibitions featuring artwork by incarcerated artists.
Classes & Workshops
We offer arts education for all ages and skill levels, taught by studio members, community artists, and visiting instructors. Instruction spans a wide range of mediums and is designed to reduce barriers to participation through our accessible community setting, inclusive programming, and equitable artist compensation. Located in a community with limited access to arts education, our site increases local accessibility. Instruction emphasizes hands-on skill-building and opportunities for personal and cultural expression through creative practice.
Creative Retail Space
Our on-site shop provides commission-free sales opportunities for artists, supporting artist income and visibility while fostering direct engagement between artists and the community.
In addition, our spaces are regularly used for community activities, including school field trips, private events, and public gatherings that incorporate artistic experiences led by teaching artists.
Community Impact Initiatives (as a nonprofit)
As a newly designated 501(c)(3), Scarab Creative Arts has expanded programming to further our mission of accessible arts engagement. Current initiatives include:
• Supporting scholarships for youth from underserved communities to participate in arts education
• Hosting artist gatherings to support mentorship and professional development
• Delivering arts programming in partnership with local nonprofit organizations at community events
Organization
Scarab Creative Arts
Address
729 East Divisadero
Fresno
93721
County
Fresno
Region
Central Valley
Website
Congressional District
21st Congressional district of California
State Assembly District
State Assembly District #31
State Senate District
State Senate District 14
