Our role in the Creative Economy
ArtyHood Foundation is part of a broader effort across San Francisco to strengthen the creative economy—an ecosystem of artists, businesses, and communities that drives cultural identity, economic growth, and social well-being.
We focus on creating access: to space, to audiences, and to paid opportunities—ensuring artists and cultural workers can sustain their practice and thrive.
Who We Are
ArtyHood Foundation is a San Francisco–based nonprofit supporting artists, activating communities, and strengthening the cultural infrastructure that allows creativity to thrive.
We design and produce public programs that create real opportunities for artists and cultural workers to earn income, showcase their work, and connect with communities—while activating public space and supporting local economies.
Our work sits at the intersection of art, community, and economic development, contributing to a more inclusive and resilient creative economy.
Mission
To support artists and cultural workers by creating accessible, community-centered programs that generate economic opportunity, activate public space, and strengthen local creative ecosystems.
Vision
A future where artists and cultural workers are supported as essential contributors to thriving communities, and where arts and culture are integrated into the economic and social fabric of every neighborhood.
Core Values
Creativity
We champion creativity as a driver of cultural identity, innovation, and economic opportunity.
Collaboration
We build cross-sector partnerships with businesses, community organizations, and public agencies to expand impact and opportunity.
Community
We activate public spaces to foster connection, belonging, and shared cultural experiences.
Inclusivity
We prioritize equity by creating platforms and paid opportunities for underrepresented artists and cultural workers.
Joy
We create joyful, welcoming experiences that bring people together through art and culture.
Why It Matters
Across San Francisco and beyond, artists and cultural workers face increasing challenges—from rising costs and limited access to space, to fewer opportunities for sustainable income.
At the same time, arts and culture play a critical role in shaping vibrant, connected communities and driving local economic activity.
ArtyHood works to strengthen the creative ecosystem by:
Expanding access to paid opportunities for artists and cultural workers
Activating underutilized spaces for cultural and community use
Increasing visibility and access to arts and cultural across communities.
By investing in artists and activating public space, we are helping build a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable creative economy.
What We Do
ArtyHood Foundation designs and produces programs that support artists, activate public space, and strengthen local creative economies.
Art Shows & Markets
Recurring public art markets that provide artists with direct income opportunities while increasing foot traffic for local businesses.
Live Performances & Entertainment
Paid performance opportunities for musicians, performers, and cultural workers that activate public space and engage diverse audiences.
Neighborhood Partnerships
Cross-sector partnerships with small businesses, cultural districts, and community organizations to drive economic activity and neighborhood vitality.
Space Activation
Transforming vacant storefronts and underutilized spaces into cultural hubs that expand access to creative infrastructure.
Founder & Director
Lauro González-Arias
Lauro González-Arias is a Mexican native from a coastal city in southeast Mexico (off the Gulf of Mexico). He liberated himself and immigrated to San Francisco, California, in 2017. He is now a social entrepreneur and community advocate.
Lauro is passionate and committed to equality and making the world better for all people. He has a professional background in marketing, politics, and NGOs (non-governmental organizations) that fight for the civil and linguistic rights of indigenous peoples of Mexico. In his new stage of life, he’s organizing artists to collaborate with businesses to support each other and uplift their communities.
