Our Vision

At Shutter and Strum, we envision a world where every individual, regardless of background or circumstance, has the opportunity to explore their creativity, express themselves, and find healing through the transformative power of the arts. We are committed to providing accessible workshops and experiential learning opportunities in film/darkroom photography, art gallery curation, songwriting, music performance, and integrating music with core subjects, fostering a space for youth to cultivate mindfulness and pursue their artistic passions. Our vision is to inspire and empower at-risk/underserved youth in Colorado Springs, offering them authentic mentorship and artistic pathways to overcome difficulties and generational trauma, ultimately fostering personal recovery in a safe and non-judgmental environment.

We are deeply committed to incorporating the vibrant and diverse cultural fabric of Colorado Springs into our vision. With its thriving art and music scene, Colorado Springs is home to a talented community whose creative expressions enrich the local culture. Our mission is to collaborate closely with local artists, musicians, and cultural organizations to establish a supportive network that nurtures the artistic aspirations of young people. Through partnerships with organizations like the Pikes Peak Arts Council and music venues such as What's Left Records, we strive to offer our participants exposure to a wide range of artistic experiences and mentorship opportunities.

Moreover, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to our generous donors, whose contributions play a crucial role in helping us fulfill our mission. Their support for our fundraising campaigns provides us with the necessary resources to create an environment where young talents can thrive. We deeply appreciate their belief in our vision and are fully committed to honoring their dedication by ensuring that every donation directly translates into meaningful opportunities for all individuals we aim to serve.