Uplifting young artists through professional mentorship and guidance

TEEN ARTISTS! Join our mentorship program or show your talent at Chicago Youth Art Expo!

Sponsor our one-of-a-kind career exploration program for teen artists

Donate in support of our professional mentorship and youth art expo program

“African Queen” by 18 year old artist Alijah @ayocontinued

  • Workshops

    Monthly in-person and additional live video sessions! Get your questions answered by professional artists. Career Essentials such as budgeting, income generation, printing, exhibiting, and so much more.

  • Experiences

    Tours, visits, and VIP experiences at art festivals like The Other Art Fair, Art Expo, 57th Street Art Fair, and other interactive learning sessions between youth artists and our family of professional artists.

  • Sessions

    Creative, connective sessions in which professional artists provide hands-on and virtual guidance to our young artists on their technique and beyond.

Showcase Your Talent @ Chicago Youth Art Expo

High school artists can apply to join our professional artist mentor program and get help on their submitted art.

Students who can’t take advantage of our mentoring can simply submit your application to showcase your art at the Chicago Youth Art Expo!

Mentor Artists

Mentorship-driven impact

Connecting youth with established artists for transformative guidance, skill building, and professional development. 

Mentorship Activities:

One-on-one portfolio development
Studio visits with professional artists
Personalized creative guidance
Career development workshops
Exhibition planning and assistance

Program Timeline: 

Applications Open: March 2025
The Other Art Fair Kickoff: March 29th
Chicago Art Expo: April 26th
Mentor Matching: April
57th Street Art Fair: June 7th & 8th
Workshops: July - Sept
Experiences: Mar - Sept
Sessions: April - Oct
Exhibition Prep: Oct
Youth Art Expo @ Black Fine Art Fair: Oct

Our one-of-a-kind mentorship program culminates with the Chicago Youth Art Expo hosted at Pigmented Black Fine Art Faire during Black Fine Art Month (October)

The Pigmented Black Fine Art Faire in Chicago plays host to leading galleries, artists, arts organizations and others in the Midwest and beyond.  Hosted during Black Fine Art Month in October, it brings attention to the celebration while recognizing the rich Black artistic history of the city dating back more than eight decades.

If you have ever dreamt of becoming a professional artist or want to explore art with a mentor,

Sign up below or email us at pigmentintl@gmail.com

Sign up to join our mentorship program or show your art at our expo.

Become a sponsor of our program and expo by providing funds or in-kind value.

Become an individual donor to help pay for art supplies, food, and other essentials we need.