Kasmin x Artsy Benefit Raises $100,000 for Artistic Noise

Based in Harlem, Artistic Noise has created art in collaboration with thousands of young people aged 14-22 who are incarcerated, on probation, in foster care, unhoused, or otherwise impacted by the juvenile court system. For more than 20 years, Artistic Noise's core programming has included artmaking workshops, courthouse-based alternatives to incarceration programs, drop-in support programs, and large-scale mural projects.

Proceeds from this year's auction will help the organization expand its Art & Entrepreneurship program. Program participants, who are often referred by community organizations, are paid stipends above minimum wage to learn a variety of artistic skills, making pieces that they ultimately sell in one of Artistic Noise’s annual youth art shows.

The funds will also support pay and materials for Artistic Noise's staff of teaching artists and art therapists. Many of the teaching artists are alumni of the Art & Entrepreneurship program and have grown to lead solo art shows at Artistic Noise’s Harlem studio. Art therapists lead programs designed to help participating youth establish and achieve educational and personal goals, increase positive relationships with adults, and connect themselves to a supportive community of their peers.