What We Offer

Artists First provides opportunities for meaningful creative experiences for artists of all abilities. Our versatile range of programs are designed to empower individuals, build community, and champion the power of creativity. Through our programs and community initiatives, we strive to facilitate experiences where every participant can explore their artistic potential.

What We Believe

Arts Engagement for All

Artists First’s mission and everything we engage in is centered around arts accessibility. Artists First, is based on the social model meaning we adapt to the needs of individuals, they do not need to adapt to our physical environment or programming. Artists First is person-centered and uses a strengths-based approach to build an environment where everyone has the tools they need to succeed. When we create accessible spaces and systems, we create a more compassionate, fair, and productive world for all.

Community

We believe in the power of artistic communities to not only nurture the creative process but also to serve as a platform for cultural exchange, healing, and social change. The Artists First community is the foundation of connection, support, and growth for over 400 artists. It provides individuals with a sense of belonging and purpose. The Artists First community is a vibrant, dynamic space where creativity thrives, and individuals come together to share, inspire, and challenge one another.

Best-Practice

Our organization takes a minimal-touch approach, providing participants with the resources they need to succeed while respecting their autonomy. We transfer control to the artists, allowing them to engage in the creative process with full access to professional art supplies, equipment, and specialized art facilitation as needed. This approach ensures that artists can express themselves freely and authentically, without limitations imposed by external expectations or constraints.

"Unconditional love. What I see here at Artists First. A sense of belonging, purpose, caring for others. The healing power of art and creativity. "

-Support Professional

Meet the A1 Team

Sheila Suderwalla, MSW (She/Her)
Executive Director

Executive Director, Sheila Suderwalla has over 20 years’ experience working with communities in need. Some of her successes as a social worker have been featured in publications such as the New York Times, St. Louis Post Dispatch and Time Magazine. Since 2013, Sheila has built Artists First into an award-winning organization. In 2023 she was awarded the Arts Innovator Women’s Visionary Award. As a juried winning artist, she has incorporated art into her work with individuals who have experienced trauma. Sheila has a Bachelor of Arts from Principia College, Masters in Social Work from Washington University in St. Louis, and a Certificate in Expressive and Integrative Therapies from Fontbonne University.

Catie Deck (She/Her)
Program Manager

Catie is a ceramic artist, ceramic instructor, and painter from St. Louis, Missouri. She graduated from Webster University with a Bachelor's in Studio Art and a Certificate in Expressive Arts Therapy. Additionally, Catie is a certified Peer Specialist with specialized training in Crisis Stabilization and Safety. Since 2023, she has been with Artists First, currently serving as the studio’s Program Manager. As both an artist and facilitator, Catie is passionate about integrating art as a pathway to holistic health. Through process-based practices, she fosters mind-body connection and intuition, empowering individuals to explore creativity as a tool for personal well-being and growth.

Aaron Underwood (He/Him)
Studio Manager

Aaron is a mixed media creator and fabricator with a B.A. from the University of Missouri, Columbia. His multidisciplinary background includes photography, woodworking, and metalwork, allowing him to move fluidly between concept and construction. Outside the studio, Aaron can often be found balancing on a unicycle, bringing the same precision and creativity to performance as he does to his art practice.

Leticia Brock (She/Her)
Operations Manager

Leticia holds both a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Business Administration and brings over 35 years of accounting experience, including work with various non-profits. She has been an integral part of the Artists First team for the past three years, contributing her expertise to the organization’s financial operations. Outside of her professional role, Leticia is deeply committed to community service, dedicating much of her free time to MapleGood. She also cherishes spending quality time with her daughters and grandchildren.