At the end of Main Street, where Route 66 takes a sharp turn in Bristow, the Bristow Creative Arts Center is transforming a local familiar spot into a place for children, giving them a space to express themselves, discover their talents, and build confidence through the power of art. By the way they have adult things to do too!
The Harmony Grace Imagination Foundation, a nonprofit led by a passionate board of eight Bristow natives, is on a mission to provide kids, especially home-schooled and foster children, with the opportunity to explore and express themselves creatively. The board, which includes Ashlee and B, came together through their shared concern for the limited resources available to local children in need. Their vision is simple yet profound: to make art accessible to every child, regardless of background, and to help them navigate life’s challenges through the healing and empowering power of creativity.
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'We all had the same passion for giving kids the opportunity to create something beautiful, to gain self-confidence, and to express themselves in a safe environment,' explains Ashlee.
What started as a small initiative has blossomed into an organized foundation with eight dedicated board members, each bringing a unique skill set and artistic background to the table. From painting to sculpture, photography to mixed media, the variety of artistic styles and mediums available for the children is a key part of the foundation’s mission. The board members’ diverse talents and experiences allow them to offer a wide range of classes and workshops, ensuring every child finds a medium that resonates with them. The foundation’s impact is not only local; their vision extends beyond the walls of Bristow. Through the Harmony Grace Imagination Foundation, kids will have the opportunity to showcase their artwork at art shows across the country, as well as in local galleries and festivals. A unique feature of the foundation is that the children retain 100% of any financial proceeds from the sale of their artwork, which serves as both a reward and a confidence booster for young artists.
A previous art program held at the local library had great success, including competition winners, but the demand for more resources and space led the team to seek a bigger venue. The new facility is designed to accommodate the growing needs of the community, offering both structured and unstructured times for families to come together after work for a fun, creative outing. Whether parents want to engage in guided lessons or simply allow their kids to explore their creativity freely, there is something for everyone.
In addition to Ashlee, B, and their friend Christie, other local artists will periodically serve as guest teachers, bringing new skills and perspectives to the program. The foundation also plans to offer scholarships for children who may not be able to afford the fees and cover additional costs like art show entry fees. The ultimate goal is to create a supportive environment where kids feel empowered to pursue their artistic passions, regardless of financial or social barriers.
Beyond the foundation, the Harmony Grace Imagination Foundation’s legacy also lives on in 'Harmonic Hedgehog,' a small business continued in memory of their daughter. This initiative will continue to thrive as part of the Creative Arts Center, further blending creativity with community.
The foundation is more than just a place to create—it’s a place to grow. Families and local artists alike are invited to support the mission, with the foundation providing all the necessary art supplies to bring each child's ideas to life. It’s a community effort that fosters positivity, growth, and creativity in Bristow, helping the town continue to evolve in ways that support its youth and local artists.
Stay connected through their Facebook page or pick up a calendar at the center to find out more about upcoming classes, art shows, and exciting community events. Through their work, the Harmony Grace Imagination Foundation is not only transforming the lives of children but also enriching the Art of Bristow for children and families to have a sense of purpose in