Our Mission -
The Meraki Art Foundation
The Meraki Art Foundation is the nonprofit arm, 501(3)(c), of Meraki Spaces & Meraki Art Institute. Our mission empowers underserved artists by providing access to creative space, education, mentorship, and opportunities that nurture both artistic and professional growth. Housed in the historic Dunaway Building, our mission is to remove financial and structural barriers, offer fully funded studio memberships, and create pathways for artists to exhibit, learn, and thrive within our community and beyond. Rooted in the belief that art transforms lives, we exist to cultivate a more inclusive, vibrant, and supportive creative ecosystem in Pacific Beach.
Bid on Artwork
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Support Our Mission
Get to Know Us
The pieces in this auction were created by artists who have been directly supported by our creative community at Meraki.
Each artist has witnessed firsthand how access to space, mentorship, and opportunity can transform a career—and they are contributing their work to help the Meraki Art Foundation continue to grow.
This collection also includes a special piece from Melissa Medina, founder of Meraki Spaces, Meraki Art Institute and Board Chair of the Meraki Art Foundation.
10% of each sale goes directly to the artist.
90% of proceeds support our nonprofit mission to provide fully funded studio memberships, residencies, education, and exhibition opportunities for underserved artists in Pacific Beach.
Your bid does more than bring home a piece of art—
it helps create space, access, and possibility for the artists who need it most.
Our Vision.
Our vision is to build a world where every artist—regardless of background, resources, or circumstance—has the space, support, and opportunity to turn their creative potential into a sustainable future. We envision the Meraki Art Foundation as a catalyst for cultural growth in Pacific Beach and beyond, where access to studio space, mentorship, and community transforms lives. By nurturing diverse voices and empowering artists to rise, we aim to create a more vibrant, inclusive, and interconnected creative ecosystem for generations to come.
Our Process.
Accessibility & Creative Space
Providing fully funded access to studio space, tools, and resources inside the historic Dunaway Building—removing financial and structural barriers so underserved artists can create, grow, and belong.
Education & Career Development
Offering mentorship, business training, workshops, and creative guidance through Meraki Art Institute, empowering artists to build sustainable careers and expand their professional opportunities.
Exhibition & Opportunity Pathways
Curating showcases, exhibitions, community events, and local/global residency opportunities that amplify artists’ visibility and connect them with collectors, collaborators, and the broader creative community.
Local & International Residencies
We open doors to transformative residency experiences both at Meraki Spaces and abroad.
Artists gain dedicated time, space, and support to deepen their practice while expanding their networks, portfolios, and global reach.
