The 418 Project
Welcome
To Santa Cruz’s place for all
to Move & Be Moved
Our Mission & Vision
Mission: The 418 Project supports emerging artists and diverse communities to create a more inclusive world
Vision: We envision a world where all people feel safe being together
Organizational Values
We believe...
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The arts, especially local arts, are a pillar of social change
When emerging artists and diverse communities get the resources they need, our world becomes less violent and fearful
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When people feel a greater sense of belonging, we awaken to our inner expressiveness, curiosity and humanity
The most powerful way to improve life for all people is to strategically increase opportunity for those furthest from opportunity, thereby addressing centuries of inequity
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Actions we take...
We provide no-cost artist mentorships, and low to no-cost studio, development, and venue space to emerging artists and diverse communities, so they can feel a sense of safety and belonging while they do their work
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We commit to dismantling white supremacy by consistently training our board, staff, facilitators and contributing artists in restorative, resilient, and compassionate communication
We curate our programming to center those from diverse groups, creating an environment where a wide variety of perspectives are uplifted
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We design our leadership and staff to represent as broad a variety of views as possible, placing diverse individuals in positions of authority and power
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We go slowly, softly and humbly, knowing our work is the work of multiple lifetimes
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Since 1993, The 418 Project has provided affordable, accessible programming—a home where artists and entrepreneurs can grow their gifts centered around Community, Mindfulness, Art, and Embodiment.
In our new permanent home, we are committed to making a significant difference and we are humbly aiming to create equitable outcomes that benefit all people.
What does this mean? Santa Cruz is in the midst of social and economic change. When redevelopment happens, BIPOC people, women, artists, and teachers are disproportionately affected. The 418 Project’s new permanent facility, located in the heart of downtown Santa Cruz, will serve an estimated 160,000 visits a year, becoming a welcoming home to emerging artists and diverse communities. Our artist-led, locally imagined offerings enrich everyone's lives, creating a healthier, more connected community where people feel safer together.
Think globally, support locally! If you have the resources, it’s a great time to support a place that will make a difference, now and for generations to come. Santa Cruz is now the second least affordable place to live in the US; your donation supports accessible space for diverse communities and helps keep working artists in Santa Cruz and beyond.
