With a passion for youth development and a love for the arts, Tanesha Powell has stepped into the role of executive director at ART 180, the Richmond nonprofit that has empowered young creators for nearly 30 years.

“I am deeply honored to join ART 180 in its next chapter, and I’m excited to collaborate with our community to empower young voices and nurture the creative spirit of Richmond,” Powell said. 

Although Powell doesn’t see herself as a traditional artist, she has a deep appreciation for the arts. Music, in particular, is her favorite form of expression. She played alto sax in middle school, high school and college bands, and her father, a DJ, inspired her love of music by introducing her to a wide range of musical genres. 

“I’m an appreciator of art,” Powell said. “I use music and crafting as a form of self-expression.” 

Her love of crafting is a part-time activity that allows her to unwind and relax. She spends much of her free time finding discarded items and transforming them into something new that can be put to use. 

Powell’s adventurous spirit has shaped her perspective. She grew up in Mount Zion, a historic Black community in Montgomery County, Maryland, and has lived in several places, including a year in Dubai, and she and her daughter have traveled extensively. 

During their time in Dubai, Powell and her daughter traveled to Oman, France, England and Iceland, her daughter’s favorite. 

Powell and her daughter also share a love of camping, which they discovered while Powell worked at Blue Sky Fund, a nonprofit organization focused on youth development. 

With experience in organizational leadership, a deep appreciation for the arts and a spirit of adventure, Powell is poised to guide ART 180. In addition to her credentials, she brings a commitment to empowering young creators. 

“I believe in the power of art,” Powell said. “ART 180 inspires and elevates the next generation of creators.” 

Where do you live?

Eastern Henrico. 

What’s your educational background?

I hold a bachelor’s in psychology and a master’s in elementary education from the University of Pennsylvania. 

Tell us about your family.

Married with two kids: a bonus son who’s 20 and a 16-year-old daughter. 

What is ART 180?

We are a community-centered arts space, gallery and creative collective committed to meeting artists at every stage of their creative development. We provide free arts programming for young people, host exhibitions and bring public art events, workshops for adult and youth artists and installations to Richmond. 

Where is ART 180 located?

We’re in Jackson Ward on Marshall Street. 

What is ART 180’s mission?

We are a collective of creative people cultivating the tools and strength of spirit to meet every moment, every trauma and every triumph head-on. 

Who founded ART 180? 

Marlene Paul and Kathleen Lane co-founded the nonprofit ART 180 in 1997. They envisioned an organization that would inspire creativity in young people who might not otherwise have access to creative outlets. 

What programs are offered?

We provide free arts programming for young people, host exhibitions and bring public art events and installations to Richmond. We work with community-based after-school programs, like NextUp and the Boys & Girls Clubs as well as Richmond Public Schools to offer a variety of creative outlets in a wide range of media, including things like DJing and podcasting in addition to traditional visual art. 

Share some examples of how ART 180 makes a difference.

We provide a safe space that enables students to be seen and heard within a community of peers. Kids are finding their niche and building relationships with peers with similar interests. 

I personally saw a usually shy kid take a DJing class and come out of his shell, and his parents were so excited that they gave him DJing equipment. 

What is your vision for ART 180?

I want to ensure that ART 180 continues to thrive as a community-centered arts space, gallery, and creative hub — offering transformative workshops, exhibitions, residencies and art experiences for young people, their families and working artists across the city. 

What are the biggest challenges facing ART 180?

The current federal and local funding cuts for nonprofits will have an impact on the arts community. Transportation for the youths is an ongoing challenge. As it starts to get darker, the kids have to take public transit. 

How is ART 180 funded?

We have a wide variety — individual donors, foundation and corporate grants and fees from special events and merchandise sales. 

Who are some of your partners? 

For programming, NextUp, the Boys & Girls Clubs, RPS, the Institute for Contemporary Art at Virginia Commonwealth University and The Branch Museum of Design. We also partner with other arts programs for fundraising. 

Are there volunteer opportunities? 

Yes, periodically. We are seeking volunteers to assist with resetting the gallery for shows and major events. 

Do you have any upcoming events?

On Friday, Oct. 3, we are opening a show called “Role Reversals,” where staff, board members and teachers will display a variety of media of art. It’s a free event. 

How do you start the day? 

With a deep breath and quiet thank you. 

Who is your dream dinner party guest? 

All of my grandparents and great-grandparents. I have many questions about my family history that I would like to ask them. 

What is a quote that inspires you?

“This too shall pass,” because it reminds me that trouble won’t last always and that if I just keep pressing forward, things will change. 

What is a book that has influenced you?

“God Don’t Like Ugly,” by Mary Monroe. 

What are you currently reading?

“Lovely One: A Memoir,” by Ketanji Brown Jackson 

What are the top three on your musical playlist?

“Jireh” by Elevation Worship and Maverick City Music; the cover of Adele’s “Hello” by Backyard Bands; and “There’s Hope” by India.Arie. 

What’s next for you?

I’m excited about the strategic planning we’ll be doing for the next three to five years.