• Partnering with other nonprofits to broaden resources
• Empowering youth with creativity • Uniting artists of the world
About
ARTcation does a variety of charitable activities locally and around the globe.
We aim to use our creativity and artistic skills to make a meaningful impact.
How It All Started
ARTcation is the brainchild of Dionn Reneé and Jho Vilar, who embarked on this inspiring journey in 2015 in New York City. United by a common goal, we envisioned a way to harness our photography skills for philanthropic purposes. Our first official ARTcation in Philadelphia kicked off in 2016, culminating in not just stunning visuals but also a series of educational and inspirational photoshoots. We believe in the impact of art to change lives, and we invite you to be part of our mission to create a positive legacy through our lens.
The Mission
ARTcation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring and teaching introspective skills to young adults and children through unforgettable art workshops. Our unique approach combines the transformative power of art with community engagement and star power, fostering a sense of responsibility, self-expression and emotional intelligence in young participants locally, nationally, and internationally.
ARTcation News: A Journey of Art, Impact, and Growth
Since its inception in 2015, ARTcation has been about combining creativity with compassion. Founded by ambitious artists Dionn Reneé and Jho Vilar, the first ARTcation was an exploration of art and community impact, splitting its time between New York City and Philadelphia. The duo walked the streets of these vibrant cities, capturing photographs of scenes the world needed to see—moments of beauty, resilience, and untold stories. That effort sparked a bigger idea: to use art as a tool for education, healing, and charitable giving.
Fast forward to 2025, and ARTcation has grown into an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with an incredible year ahead. Our next mission takes us to San José, Costa Rica, where we’ll work alongside World Champion Boxer and celebrated philanthropist, Hanna Gabriels. Known for her inspiring spirit and charitable efforts, Hanna is helping us connect with local animal shelters and youth organizations that empower and uplift young women.
The next ARTcation we plan to embark on an 11-day philanthropic journey to Costa Rica, offering free workshops that create therapeutic and fun spaces for youth. Our mission is clear: to support pre-established organizations already making a difference by volunteering, teaching, and providing tools to amplify their work. In addition, we’ll offer free graphic design services to help these organizations streamline their outreach and better serve their communities.
Our team of skilled artists and teachers are experts at making art accessible and enjoyable for people of all ages. With Hanna Gabriels drawing media attention and motivating participants, we have a unique opportunity to amplify our impact. Her influence in Costa Rica and her ranking as the top boxer in her weight class give us the advantage of building strong connections and generating excitement for the mission.
However, we need your support to make this dream a reality. To fund supplies, logistics, and workshops, we’re calling on individuals and organizations to consider donating to our cause. Every contribution—whether monetary, in-kind, or volunteer time—helps us bring creativity, education, and hope to those who need it most.
We’re also actively applying for grants and exploring the possibility of adding a grant writer to our team to secure additional funding for ARTcation's growing projects.
ARTcation is committed to making a difference, one mission at a time. Join us as we take this exciting step forward and bring the transformative power of art to Costa Rica in 2025!
Let’s create something extraordinary together. 🌍🎨
ARTcation supports organizations that are actively helping people.
ARTcation seeks out and empowers organizations that inspire positive transformation in their communities. As a way of rewarding their efforts, we send talented artists to provide free creative services, including photography, videography, graphic design, business cards, logo enhancements, website updates, social media content, and promotional materials.
By uplifting these mission-driven organizations with high-quality artistic support, we help amplify their reach and further their positive influence.