HeartWorks Artist Program
Our Mission
HeartWorks Foundation Inc. is a Buffalo-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by artist Jarael Adams. Our mission is to equip emerging artists and creative entrepreneurs with the tools, education, mentorship, and opportunities needed to build sustainable creative careers while strengthening the communities they serve.
The HeartWorks Creative Enterprise Incubator is an artist-run resource at 74 Allen Street. Through shared creative space, practical training, and collaboration, we help artists move from developing their craft to presenting their work, pursuing commissions, and building income.
HeartWorks operates its nonprofit programming in space provided in kind at Paint the Town Studio & Gallery. The two organizations work together to expand access to Buffalo’s creative community.
Community in Action
Tools, Skills & Creative Opportunity
- Visual Arts & Tool Library: shared art tools and resources for studio practice and mural projects
- Photography & Media: space and resources for documenting work and developing portfolios
- Audio Production & DJ: creative practice, technical learning, and presentation skills
- Artist mentorship, guided practice, and professional development workshops
- Creative business skills: pricing, project budgets, timelines, and service development
- Portfolio and RFP preparation: artist bios, resumes, work samples, and proposal materials
- Community collaboration, public art, exhibitions, and artist showcases
Contact us about current workshops, mentorship, and scheduled resource access. Availability varies by program and capacity.
Who HeartWorks Serves
- Emerging visual artists, photographers, audio creators, and DJs
- Creative entrepreneurs developing their skills and professional practice
- Buffalo artists seeking access to tools, mentorship, and collaborative space
- Community members interested in learning, creating, and contributing through the arts
Our outreach includes Buffalo neighborhoods in ZIP codes 14208, 14211, and 14212. Programs take place at 74 Allen Street.
Get Involved
Tell us about your creative practice, goals, and the support you need using the application below. We will follow up to discuss current opportunities, orientation, and scheduling.
We are developing a six-month fellowship model across visual arts, photography and media, and audio production and DJ. Planned activities combine mentor labs, group workshops, professional portfolios or electronic press kits, and a community showcase. Cohort dates and available places will be announced when confirmed.
Interested in mentoring, teaching, volunteering, or partnering? Email theheartworkfndn@gmail.com or call 716-465-6682.