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Bringing People Together Through Community Murals

Through large-scale community art projects, Uplift Art Foundation helps students and community members leave their mark, celebrate their individuality, and create something meaningful together.

Plan Your Project

Strengthen belonging and community connection

Create vibrant spaces that inspire pride and participation

Give every participant the opportunity to spread hope

our mission

We believe art brings people together. Our mission is to strengthen schools and communities by creating collaborative art experiences that inspire belonging and empower every person to leave their mark.

the problem

Too Many People Feel Disconnected From Their Community

Schools and neighborhoods thrive when people feel connected, valued, and included. Unfortunately, art programs continue to lose funding, students report lower feelings of belonging, and communities often lack opportunities to come together around a shared purpose.

Without meaningful experiences that bring people together, schools miss opportunities to strengthen culture, students miss opportunities for creative expression, and communities miss opportunities to build pride in the places they call home.

Because everyone belongs.

Because everyone matters.

Because every person deserves to leave their mark.

Plan Your Project

our programs

Where Creativity Builds Community

Our programs empower students, artists, and neighbors to create public art that reflects their stories, strengthens connections, and inspires pride for generations to come.

Get Involved

Schools Mural Program

We bring art to life in schools through collaborative mural projects that engage students in creating lasting works of art, celebrating their shared identity and fostering belonging and school pride.

Community Murals Program

In partnership with local communities, we create large-scale art and mural projects that are bold, vibrant, and inclusive, giving everyone the opportunity to leave their mark.

Artist in Residence Program

We partner with local schools and artists to provide meaningful mentorship, hands-on art experiences, and creative education that inspire student engagement and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

about uplift art foundation

Transforming Spaces. Strengthening Communities.

Since 2013, Uplift founder Lilian has been helping communities experience the transformative power of collaborative art.
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Our projects help:
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Increase participation in the arts

Strengthen school and community belonging

Create vibrant and welcoming spaces

Encourage creativity and self-expression

Board of Directors

Guiding the Vision, Growing the Impact

Lilian Belaen

Founder, President & Executive Director

Jennifer Pedersen

Treasurer & Director of Finance

Nicole Johnson

Director of Education & School Partnerships

Alana Aldrete

Director of Marketing & Communications

Jada Johnson

Director of Community Engagement

Open Now

Director of Sponsorships

impact

Together, we create more than a mural- we create belonging

"Lilian, we're really thrilled with how lovely the mural is. Thanks for all of your work to gather input from students, include as many as possible, and ensure that the finished product was a lovely addition to the school. I'll be sure to share your info to any other schools I learn are wanting to do murals."

Kristyn Westphal

PrincipalThomas Jefferson Middle School

"It turned out absolutely beautiful! ...I think overall you were so well organized and prepared that it went very smoothly."

Devonne Pele

Art and Science Teacher, Thomas Jefferson Middle school

05.2026

"I was nervous to participate because I'm not an artist. Seeing my face on the mural made me so proud."

Community Member

NAMI Walks, Portland OR

05.2026

Let's Create Something Meaningful Together

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