We recently connected with Autumn Pippenburg and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Autumn, thanks for joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

The mural installation at Philip Randolph Elementary School was not only one of my most challenging projects, but also the most rewarding. Our goal was to enliven the cafeteria at this West Englewood school and inspire creativity among students and staff. A large team of volunteers and artists spent the entire summer perfecting the mural. Inspired by my 12-year-old son’s idea, we chose a Minecraft theme. Initially, the art director was skeptical, but after consulting her students, she realized it was a popular and timely choice.

To further enhance the cafeteria, we decided to install a brand new drop ceiling. The approval process took a few months, and when we returned to install the ceiling, I discovered that the students had been disrespecting the mural by peeling off the paint. This was disheartening, considering the countless hours of my free time spent on this project. It made me realize that painting the school alone wasn’t enough.

I discussed my concerns with the principal, who promptly called a staff meeting in the cafeteria. She emphasized the importance of teaching students to respect their environment and set a good example. The staff rearranged the tables away from the walls to prevent students from picking at the paint and established consequences for those who disobeyed. We retouched the mural, making it look brand new again. Three months later, when I returned to the school to drop off art supplies, the room still looked incredible. This experience reinforced my belief that art truly can ignite change.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am a mother, artist, and entrepreneur—always in that order. Creativity runs through my veins, and I’ve always loved using my imagination to find solutions in tough situations. My journey into philanthropy began in 2017, and by 2019, I had founded my own nonprofit organization, the Art of Giving Foundation.

The Art of Giving Foundation is more than just the programs we run. I believe that giving is an art, and if done improperly, it can exacerbate the very problems we’re trying to solve. When we work with clients in art therapy, we ensure they are learning life skills and internalizing valuable lessons as they use art to express themselves.

Our mural projects in Chicago Public Schools involve students in every step of the process—from design to installation to maintenance. This involvement fosters a sense of ownership and pride in their community.

When we supply classrooms with art and educational materials, we don’t rely on a generic wish list. Instead, we ask teachers exactly what they need and pack supplies specifically for them, showing that we care about them as individuals with unique needs, just as they care for our children.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

It all begins at home. If you’re a parent, aunt, grandparent, or anyone caring for a child, encourage their creativity. Support your local schools by donating supplies or volunteering to teach a new skill. Our children are our future, but our support shouldn’t end when they become adults. If you want to decorate your home or business with art, buy from local artists. Avoid big corporations that mass-produce cheap art and decor, as this doesn’t stimulate our economy or show our children that art can be a viable career. Attend art shows, gallery openings, and art festivals. Buy tickets, don’t ask for free ones. Support local artists just as you support your favorite brands. This sustains the creative flow and nurtures the artistic community.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Someone once told me, “You’ll never make any money in art.” Those words hit me hard and still linger with me today. I constantly have to remind myself that this simply isn’t true. I was just a child when I heard it, and it altered the course of my life for a long time. The real question is, why did that person believe it so strongly that they felt compelled to offer it as advice? Is society really that misguided? Maybe it is challenging to make money as an artist, but perhaps it wouldn’t be if there were as many resources available for artists as there are for other professions. This is why I do what I do: so that children with dreams can pursue them with all the confidence in the world. They deserve that chance.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.artofgivingfoundation.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artofgivingorg/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArtOfGivingFoundation/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/35617146/admin/dashboard/