RiseUP for Arts is a Connecticut-based nonprofit organization dedicated to creating vibrant, inclusive communities through public art, youth development, and creative placemaking. As the only statewide public art nonprofit in Connecticut, RiseUP has facilitated the creation of over 300 community-driven murals and creative projects since 2015, transforming neighborhoods, schools, parks, and city centers into platforms for inspiration, connection, and pride.
Through programs like the Creative Leadership Program and Art4Hope initiative, RiseUP engages local youth, professional artists, and residents to co-create artwork that reflects each community’s identity and vision. Our projects support education, workforce readiness, and civic engagement—using art as a tool for empowerment and long-term impact.
RiseUP also offers consulting services to towns, nonprofits, and businesses seeking to activate public spaces through murals, installations, events, and placemaking strategies. Whether it's a community mural, youth-led design project, or neighborhood beautification effort, RiseUP brings people together to reimagine what’s possible.
Learn more or get involved at www.theriseupgroup.org
We service all of Connecticut with a concentration in Greater Hartford.
RiseUP was founded in 2012 as a youth development and mentoring program aimed at helping youth develop the skills needed to be the catalysts that inspire and uplift their community.
We launched RiseUP University as an after-school and weekend program that connected youth with mentors and career coaches. The program also required youth to commit to community service. In 2015, the RiseUP University youth cohort decided to paint a large-mural in Hartford as part of their major service project. After that first mural, the RiseUP for Arts program was born.
RiseUP for Arts has grown to be the State of Connecticut's only state-wide public art nonprofit.
In addition to public art, RiseUP for Arts is still focused on youth development in each community mural project. RiseUP also partners and organizes creative placemaking experiences across Connecticut.