MISSION
The Steel Yard champions a world made by hand where collaborative making strengthens individuals, supports local economies, and enriches the shared spaces of our neighborhoods. We advance the industrial arts by providing artists, makers, and community members with the space, tools, training, and education they need to learn, create, and thrive. In this work we strive to dismantle barriers, address inequities, and ensure the future of the industrial arts is inclusive, diverse and sustainable.
HOW WE WORK TO MEET IT
- We believe all “Yardies” are collaborators, stewards, and leaders.
- We believe anyone can create, and that through making, individuals discover their voice, strengthen their communities, and shape more just and vibrant public spaces.
- We affirm that cultural work holds deep economic and social value, and that artists and knowledge-bearers deserve fair compensation.
- We are a place-based industrial arts organization dedicated to equitable access, shared knowledge, and creative empowerment.
- We cultivate mentorship and education rooted in mutual exchange and support networks needed for financial and ideological independence.
- We support historic preservation and are committed to environmental responsibility and we steward our campus and resources with care for both past and future.
- We believe in and seek philanthropy that expands access through scholarships, stipends, and free and low-cost programs.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION & ANTI-RACISM
At the Steel Yard, we believe everyone deserves access to the education, skills, and equipment needed to directly improve their conditions and community regardless of their race, color, religion, national origin, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation or gender identity, status with regard to public assistance, disability, sex, age or previous experience.
The Steel Yard acknowledges that continual learning and action are needed to make our campus and programs safe, inclusive, equitable, and just. We commit to reimagine, rebuild, and develop programs and systems to counteract the harm caused by structural racism and oppression of all forms. To embrace this ongoing mission we have created a standing committee of Board and Staff members to explore opportunities for justice in all of our programs and promote equitable practices and learning across the organization. We invite feedback and participation.
Join the conversation with ideas and feedback: Info@thesteelyard.org