Open Canvas Project
Creative support for grieving youth
When grief has no words, creativity can become a voice. Open Canvas Project offers encouraging, professionally guided art groups for grieving children and teens in El Dorado and Sacramento counties. Sessions are free to attend, with no fee for participation or materials.
Open Canvas Project
Creative support for grieving youth
We offer emotionally safe, professionally guided art experiences for youth ages 4–18 in El Dorado and Sacramento counties so children facing grief do not carry loss alone.
Our mission
A safe place to create
Open Canvas Project helps grieving children and teens express feelings through art in a setting built on care, trust, and connection.
Our sessions are designed especially for bereaved youth and families who need youth-friendly support rooted in creativity, compassion, and community.
Sessions are free to attend, and all art materials are provided at no cost.
Programs
How we support youth
Our nonprofit creates welcoming art experiences that help young people process grief, feel empowered, learn to paint, and build connection with others in creative ways.
Public art sessions
Open sessions give youth ages 4–18 a caring space to create, reflect, and connect through painting. There is no fee to participate, and all materials are included.
Bereavement support
Programs are especially mindful of bereaved youth, offering an environment of calm, compassionate support during difficult seasons of loss.
Community involvement
Families, partners, and supporters can help expand access to healing art experiences across northern California.
Why art helps
Creative expression can make hard feelings easier to name, share, and carry. Our approach centers emotional safety, guided activity, and connection. Sessions are free to attend, with no fee for participation or materials.
No grieving child carries loss alone.
01
Arrive and settle
Youth are welcomed into a calm, supportive environment where they can participate at their own pace.
02
Create with guidance
Facilitated art activities offer a way to explore emotions without pressure to find the right words.
Art can open a door to expression, connection, and hope when grief feels too heavy to hold alone.
03
Share if ready
Participants may connect with others, or simply keep their work private in a space that respects every comfort level.
04
Leave supported
Each session is designed to help youth feel empowered, steadied, and less alone in their grief journey.
Reach out anytime
Questions about sessions, partnerships, or community support? Send a message and we will help you find the next step.