Artists for Kids Culture
About Artists for Kids Culture Artists for Kids Culture (AKC) is a national not-for-profit organisation dedicated to connecting children and young people with creative opportunities through the arts. Established in 1994, AKC works with children and young people aged 5–17, with a focus on those experiencing financial or social hardship, ensuring they can access meaningful arts experiences that support creativity, confidence, and wellbeing. AKC delivers a range of impactful programs, including its national Creative Access Program, the Victorian based artsbus Program, Y(Our)Fest, school focussed programs and community-based initiatives that bring arts directly into communities. A cornerstone of AKC’s work since 1994 is the Creative Access Program, which provides direct financial support to children and young people—ensuring those who would otherwise miss out can access life-changing creative opportunities. By paying approved providers directly, AKC ensures funds are used as intended and deliver meaningful, long-term outcomes. AKC has recently expanded its footprint with the establishment of Sub27, a dedicated gallery and creative space supporting the next generation of artists, 18 - 27 years. Sub27 provides emerging artists with access to a professional exhibition environment, while offering internship opportunities that deliver real-world experience in the arts sector. AKC is entering an exciting phase of growth, including the development of a permanent arts and community space at Barak Beacon in Port Melbourne, as part of a broader social and affordable housing model. This positions AKC at the heart of an innovative, community-led approach that integrates arts, wellbeing, and place-based impact. Guided by its values of Community, Creativity, Care, and Culture, AKC continues to create opportunities for children and young people to thrive through artistic expression. “The arts can improve mental health, reduce the impact of trauma, and support cognitive and social development across the life course.” — World Health Organization, What is the evidence on the role of the arts in improving health and well-being? (2019)