Reimagine the power of arts and creativity for our planet and people
OUR PURPOSE
At Arts for Global Development (Art4Development.Net) we bring a multi-disciplinary, cross-sectoral and participatory approach to development and engage individuals and organizations worldwide in creating and maintaining arts-infused positive impact. We are a registered 501(c)3 educational nonprofit organization that champions the use and application of the arts and culture to challenge societal inequities and environmental degradation.
GET INVOLVED
Throughout history, the arts in any form and style have been the major common factor in linking people at any level, socio-political and economic status, age, ethnicity, race, religion, gender, sexual orientation and color.
The arts inspire creativity, give hope, empower individuals, bring new perspectives on processes, nurture cultural competency, and offer unconventional results that stimulate innovation, develop new industries, create jobs, products and services, economic well-being and quality of life.
Won’t you agree?
- BECOME AN ARTIVIST/ARTS-HACKER: Collaborate and Partner
- SHOW YOUR COMMITMENT: Speak Up and Share
- NURTURE THE ART POWER: Donate and Support
Since 2002 we have been facilitating the creative sector and stakeholders of development collectively tackle socio-cultural, economic and ecological challenges and support underrepresented individuals and communities worldwide.
Let’s together make a positive difference.
Project H2O: Stories of Water Continues in Washington DC!
Experience an inspiring evening of art, conversation, and community, exploring water in crisis and creativity from local to global perspectives. Engage with artists and subject-matter experts whose work drives meaningful change. Take part in the arts auction to make a real impact by supporting underserved communities’ access to clean drinking water.
Space is limited—please register in advance to secure your spot!
Are you a 2D or 3D artist in Washington, D.C., Maryland, or Virginia with a compelling story to tell?
Apply for a long-term exhibition opportunity in D.C., showcasing work exploring resilience, climate change, social justice, identity, community, and transformation.
- No participation fee
- Gain exposure
- Connect with fellow creatives and changemakers
- Share your vision with a wider international, multidisciplinary audience
INTERESTED? Submit your application via the “Gotta Story to Tell” form by November 30th.
Selected Winter/Spring cohort artists will be contacted on a rolling basis with details for site-specific artwork and exhibition participation.
NOW ON VIEW! Resilience & Reverberation, a multimedia exhibition curated by Art4Development.Net in collaboration with InterAction, is on display in Washington, D.C., from April 22 to October 31, 2025.
Showcasing both local and international artists, the exhibition explores themes of climate resilience, displacement, humanitarian crises, and equity through diverse mediums—thread, acrylic, clay, digital art, and more. Each piece tells a distinct story while collectively inspiring reflection, dialogue, and action.
Learn more and schedule a visit here.
Project H2O: Stories of Water virtual arts exhibition is now LIVE —along with an online auction supporting clean water access. Start exploring!
Project H2O: Reviving Waters Online Conversation, discussing the intersection of the arts and water sustainability, and featuring select artists and their thought-provoking works. Learn more.
CreativeChange + | Intergenerational Arts-Based Solutions for a Resilient Future
Have your creative voice be heard.
In honor of CreativeChange‘s 20th anniversary, we’re launching a global call for creative projects that address climate and social challenges through art, design, and imagination.
We invite arts-based initiatives, creative individuals, and organizations that foster intergenerational collaboration and deliver authentic, innovative solutions for a more sustainable future.
A forthcoming study report will spotlight their stories, while selected submissions will be featured in the next edition of art’ishake and considered for future showcases, collaborations, and educational initiatives worldwide.
Join us in celebrating two decades of impact—and help reimagine what creative resilience can look like across generations, technologies, and cultures.
Can sonic sculptures spark dialogue about pollution? Can sun-reflective street art help cool our cities and combat climate change? How do the culinary arts intersect with rooftop gardens, cultural heritage, and food justice?
In her latest article, Art4Development.Net founder Nil Navaie explores the vital role of the arts in shaping sustainable and smART urban environments. Read more at Arts Management Network.
RECENT HIGHLIGHTS
FORUM 2025
We recently partnered with InterAction at their Annual Conference, engaging hundreds of global development leaders through art, dialogue, and shared purpose. Our informative and participatory arts program highlighted how creativity can foster connection, inspire sustainable action, and strengthen community resilience.
See what we shared at the Forum — and discover what’s possible when art meets impact.
Connect with us to explore collaborations for your future gatherings!
Arts, Fashion & Sustainability Online Conversation | September 25 at 1 PM US.EST.
Join us for a solution-oriented online conversation at the intersection of creativity, culture, and climate action. Hear from designers, conservators, and innovators on topics from preserving textiles as cultural heritage to transforming discarded materials into fashion and leveraging tech for transparent impact.
Featured speakers include:
Kwamena Boison – Co-Founder and Head of Design, The Revival
Akhil Sivanandan – Co-Founder and CEO, GreenStory
Maria Fusco – Chief Conservator and Margaret Wing Dodge Chair in Conservation, The George Washington University Museum and The Textile Museum
Lori Kartchner – Curator of Education, The George Washington University Museum and The Textile Museum
Feeling overwhelmed by constant change, stress, or burnout? You’re not alone.
At this interactive virtual workshop with art therapist Thuli Wolf, you’ll explore arts-based techniques to de-stress, heal, and regain clarity in times of uncertainty.
A free, 1-hour session designed to help you restore balance. Learn more about art therapy and register here.