art bends reality to create possiblity

AND THOSE POSSIBILITIES ARE ENDLESS…

OUR GOAL IS TO CURATE SAFE(R) SPACES WHERE WE ELEVATE OUR ISSUES, OUR CULTURE, OUR EXCELLENCE, AND OUR JOY.

The Velvet Arts Project is dedicated to improving the health, wellness and visibility of Black and Brown LGBTQ+ communities through the power of art, culture, and advocacy.

Three medical professionals, two women and one man, collaborating on assembling gears within a cloud symbol, symbolizing teamwork in cloud-based healthcare technology.

Living with HIV can be mentally & emotionally challenging

Person with closed eyes holding a large red heart close to their chest, with a green background featuring light green spots.

People living with HIV are at increased risk for developing mental health conditions. These conditions are treatable and, with help, can recover

HIV stigma affects the emotional well-being & mental health

Two people having a conversation in a therapy session, sitting on chairs in a room with abstract artwork on the wall.

People living with HIV often internalized the stigma they experience and begin to develop a negative self image

Mental Wellness Brightens the path to HIV viral suppression

Good mental health care will help you live your life to the fullest and can improve HIV treatment adherence and result in better viral suppression.

Group of five people gathered around a wooden table looking at various documents, charts, and graphs.

(ART)visory board

THE VELVET ARTS PROJECT IS A COMMUNITY BUILDING PROJECT.

The ARTvisory Board is a collective of creatives (artists, storytellers, performers, and leaders) who want to help shape programming, initiatives, and community impact from the inside out.

We believe the most powerful work is created WITH community, not just for community.

We are looking for creatives who:

Identify within LGBTQ+ and/or Black or Brown communities, and allies.
Use art, culture, or storytelling as tools for change
Care deeply about community wellness and liberation
Want to collaborate, brainstorm, and build together.

Apply to join

The Hustler's Kiki Ball | Aug 22

$20.00

upcoming events

The Brunchin' Book Club | JUNE 28

$0.00

The Brunchin’ Book Club is a monthly community brunch and discussion series created for Black and Brown queer men to gather, connect, and grow through literature and conversation. Centered around books exploring queer life, mental health, personal groth, relationships, and healing, the initiative creates a welcoming space for honest dialogue, reflection, and community building.

More than a book club, The Brunchin’ Book Club is a space where good food, meaningful conversations, and shared experiences nourish both the mind and soul.

Heavy on the Healing Circle | Jun 18

$0.00

A monthly online and in-person healing circle and emotional skills building space for Black folks looking to learn and grow in their own healing.

Whether you’re exploring your gender identity or looking for support, this group is a space to connect, share, and receive affirming support in community. Let’s come together and uplift one another in supportive community.