“ArtReach stood out to me because of its approach to teaching. The way youth can express themselves in various forms of visual art is inspiring. Being a part of this process and facilitating the self-expression of young children is a very fulfilling line of work for me.” -ArtReach Summer Camp Studio Intern

Dear Friends and Family of Barbara James,

This winter, ArtReach San Diego will take a meaningful step in honoring the life and legacy of Barbara James. One of our two community studios will be formally named the Barbara James Sun Room Studio, as a lasting tribute to Barbara’s artistry, generosity, and belief in the creative spirit.

Barbara was an accomplished painter who loved nothing more than to share her talents with others. She often welcomed neighborhood children into her studio, offering encouragement and mentorship as they explored their own creativity. She believed deeply in the joy and confidence that comes from making art, and she delighted in nurturing that spark in young people.

It is in this spirit that the Barbara James Sun Room Studio will carry her name: a bright, welcoming space where children, teens, and young adults gather to learn, create, and connect.

In the past year alone, support from the Barbara James Fund has helped ArtReach:

• Launch and expand early childhood classes, connecting toddlers and caregivers through shared creative experiences
• Grow our paid youth internships, offering mentorship, skill-building, and career exploration for teens and young adults.
• Provide free and low-cost community programs that reached more than 12,000 young people across San Diego.

This work reflects Barbara’s legacy. With your continued support, her spirit will live on in every child who takes a brush in hand, every teen who discovers their voice through art, and every family who finds connection in our studios.

We invite you to join us in celebrating the naming of the Barbara James Sun Room Studio by making a gift to the Barbara James Fund today in the form below. Your generosity ensures that Barbara’s passion for creativity continues to inspire and uplift young artists for years to come.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Steven Ross
Sarah Holbach // Executive Director, ArtReach

If you are in San Diego, or if you have occasion to visit San Diego, please give us a call and arrange to drop by and see the wonderful creative space and opportunity you have helped create.

For more about Barbara James and her incredible art: barbarajamespaintings.com

You can make your gift below or by mail to: ArtReach, P.O. Box 3999, San Diego, CA 92163.