We’re excited to share a new animated video detailing our first 30 years, going from ArtWorks to 1001 Colors! For three decades, our organization has believed in a simple but powerful idea: that investing in young people and letting the arts lead the way can transform a city. What started in 1996 as a one off summer job program has grown into a powerful movement that has shaped the visual landscape of Greater Cincinnati, employing more than 8,000 young people and working artists to produce over 400 murals and 14,000 public projects across our region. As 1001 Colors, pronounced One Thousand and One Colors, this retrospective film honors our entire journey, moving from early summer projects and iconic public art projects events like the Big Pig Gig and the launch of BLINK (as a co-founder of the event) to the opening of our permanent creative campus in Walnut Hills.
What makes this celebratory film truly special is that it wasn't just made about our community, it was entirely crafted by the people who have lived our mission. The animation brings together the talents of alumni who know the organization from the inside out, bridging our past with our bright future. The visual concept is based on an original sketch by Joe Walsh (we'll tell that story another day), a talented artist and former apprentice. His drawing became the foundation for the entire film, shaping its movement, composition, and distinct artistic tone. That original piece of work will be on view at the 1001 Colors Creative Campus, connecting the finished animation back to its starting point.
The history is brought to life through animation created by Jason Snell, a former teaching artist and Grammy-nominated Art Director. His perspective brings a distinct blend of world-class craft and deep personal history to the piece, capturing the heartbeat of our 30-year timeline with incredible care.
Moving forward under this name allows us to eliminate national brand confusion and stand out as a distinctive, trademarked pillar on the national stage. The name itself was uncovered right here in our neighborhood during renovations of our permanent creative campus in Walnut Hills, where a hidden, hand-painted window sign reading “1000 & 1 Colors,” a remnant of the 1909 Bolce Paint Company, was discovered beneath the building's facade, perfectly inspiring our next chapter.
As we look back on the incredible milestones led by our founders, city leaders, and dedicated youth apprentices, we are more focused than ever on what lies ahead. Our mission remains steadfast to produce world-class public art, develop young creative leaders, and support working artists at every stage of their careers. Thank you to everyone who has painted, supported, and believed in this vision over the last 30 years. Here’s to a future of bold art and bright futures.