A few weeks ago We got to speak with Taylor Wang, the kick ass co-founder of Student Art Spaces. “I’m the co-founder of @studentartspaces global youth-led nonprofit dedicated to uplifting underserved artists. We’ve raised over $6,000 for our cause and showcased 100+ artists in exhibitions and publications, as well as 6 nationwide chapters. I would love to spread awareness on SAS and the power of teen art with you!” and with a pitch like that, we couldn't resist the urge to learn more.
Keep reading to learn more about SAS!
What made you interested in starting SAS?
“I’ve been an artist since I was very young, so I’ve always been interested in applying to art exhibitions. As I grew up, I realized how much these opportunities cost and how restrictive that economic barrier can be for underprivileged teen artists. I started SAS to break down these barriers and make the art world more accessible for all!”
How did you start the project and more specially where nervous about how you were going to get funding for the project?
“When you think of starting a nonprofit, you probably jump to bureaucracy and paperwork, but when I started this at 15, it was really just a group of friends sitting in Starbucks. The magic of the Internet meant we could find answers to our questions with a simple click, so we buckled down and researched everything about starting an organization. We got funded through local grants and Kickstarter crowdfunding — the support was overwhelming to say the least.”
That's amazing! So what was the launching process like? I know for me I was super nervous about it because I wanted it to be perfect considering it would be the first thing people see of my brand? Is there anything you wish you did differently?
“For sure! I naturally had a lot of anxiety throughout the launch process. In a way, we’re still in that stage as we set up chapters and implement more infrastructure to sustain our rapidly growing movement. Looking back, I wish I knew how important it is to listen to others. It was only months into the process that I began to connect with other founders and directors online who I got fantastic advice from.”
How many chapters do you have so far and if someone what’s to open their own chapter under you, how can they do that?
“We currently have 10 chapters across the US and Canada. Chapter applications are not currently open, but follow @studentartspaces for updates on when they will reopen as well as other opportunities to get involved!”
Amazing! So I love asking encouraging people to dream big, where do you see SAS going in the future and what do you hope the impact will be on the targeted communities?
“I want SAS to expand bigger and better! The long term goal is to establish a chapter in every state of the US (40 more to go!) and many in other countries too. The beautiful thing about art is that every culture has its own version of it. It’s a relevant cause in any place and at any period in time, so we need diverse narratives in art now more than ever.”
One last question, so, I love a good elevator pitch. if you had 30 seconds to tell a group of people about your organization and why they should believe in it, what would you tell them?
“Student Art Spaces is a global teen-led initiative to break down barriers in the arts. We’re one of the only entirely youth coordinated organizations giving women and POC artists a voice through events and education. Support the young artists of tomorrow!”
Find SAS here:
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/studentartspaces/
WEBSITE: https://www.studentartspaces.org
Follow Taylor Wang:
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/_taylorwang/