Our Story

Originally known as the South Chicago Art Center, SkyART was founded in 2001 by art therapist Sarah Ward who taught 18 students two days a week in a small rented studio.

Almost 25 years later, our mission remains the same: With creativity at the center of everything we do, SkyART provides free, safe, open spaces where young people are empowered and connections are made.

SkyART serves young people through free art and mental health programs at our studio spaces in South Chicago and Garfield Park, as well as through partnerships with schools and community-based organizations.

Staff

  • Executive Director
    Devon VanHouten-Maldonado

    Chief Operating Officer
    Tasha Robinson

    Director of Programs
    Casey Smallwood

    Director of Development
    Jalen Taylor

  • Senior Program Manager
    Ellen Tritschler, MAAE

    Project 3rd Space Manager
    Arinique Allen

    Schools & Community Program Manager
    Kelly Christiel, MA

    Project Impact Manager
    (Vacant)

    Project Impact Coordinator
    Jessica Taing

    West Side Program Coordinator
    Ya’Shalan (Yaya) Nelson

    Senior South Side Program Coordinator
    Nikki Diaz

  • Senior Operations Manager
    Jen Torwudzo-Stroh

    Senior Operations Coordinator
    Jorge Ramirez

    Operations Coordinator
    Francesca Fox

  • Development Manager
    Katie Mazzini

    Senior Development Coordinator
    Sophie Tiahnybik

Board of Directors

  • Chair
    Christopher Dubose

    Secretary
    Joe Reinstein

    Treasurer
    Froilan Nunez

  • Julia Fischbach

    LeeAndra Khan

    Jana Hees

    Bianca Marks

    Steve Hernandez

    Stephanie Murray

    Barb Markoff-Eggener

    Emma McKee

    Jeanne Rogers

    Steve Wolff

    Steve Flores

    Brandon Beech

Annual Reports

2021
2022
2023
2024
2025