UpstArt Program
Read our 2023 Annual Report Here
upstArt connects under-resourced groups with enriching, accessible arts opportunities through school programs, community-wide arts projects, public arts initiatives, and more.
The arts bring some of the best things in life. Engagement. Innovation. Identity. Joy. We know the benefits of the arts. We also know that not everyone receives the same opportunities to experience, enjoy, and engage with the arts. That is why Lincoln Arts strives to promote accessible arts experiences and opportunities for all. And that is why we make a point of using the arts to better people’s—all people’s—lives.
Schools
In collaboration with Lincoln Public Schools, we have a presence in nearly 40 schools through afterschool Community Learning Centers, summer clubs, arts mentoring, classes with Pathfinder (the Lancaster County Youth Services Detention Center school), and other projects.
Service Organizations
Through partnerships with human service organizations like CEDARS, The Bridge, Autism Family Network, Aging Partners, and more, we bring the arts to those who may not otherwise get to experience the joy only the arts can offer through regular arts classes and workshops.
Public Spaces
By developing inclusive, community wide initiatives, like an arts residency at Gateway Mall, arts activities at public parks, and partnerships with community festivals, like Lincoln Calling and Streets Alive, we can connect with the public and empower everyone through the arts.
Current upstArt partners
School-based partners
Belmont Elementary
Boys and Girls Club
Brownell Elementary
Calvert Elementary
CEDARS
Civic Nebraska
Clinton Elementary
Culler Middle
Dawes Middle
Elliott Elementary
Everett Elementary
Family Service Lincoln
Goodrich Middle
Hartley Elementary
Holmes Elementary
Huntington Elementary
Lancaster County Youth Detention Center Pathfinder School
Lakeview Elementary
Lefler Middle
Lincoln High
Lincoln Housing Authority
Lincoln Parks and Recreation Department
Lincoln Symphony Orchestra
Malone Center
McPhee Elementary
Mickle Middle
Northeast Family Center
Norwood Elementary
McPhee Elementary
Park Middle
Pershing Elementary
Prescott Elementary
Randolph Elementary
Riley Elementary
Saratoga Elementary
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
West Lincoln Elementary
Willard Community Center
YMCA
service organization partners
Autism Family Network
The Bridge
Caravan Arts & Events
CEDARS
El Centro de las Americas
Community Justice Center
Dance for Parkinson’s
Lincoln Aging Partners
Lincoln Literacy
Mayor’s Arts Awards
Midwestern African Museum of Art
Parenting Across Color Lines
public space partners
Gateway Mall
Graduate Hotel
Lincoln Arts Festival
Lincoln Calling Music Festival
Lincoln Parks and Recreation Department
Partnership for a Healthy Lincoln
Public Art Lincoln
Union Bank & Trust