Effective immediately, our Co-founder and Co-Chairman of the Board of Directors, Russell Simmons, will be stepping down from his post at Rush Arts. Over the years, Russell has used his voice and resources to help so many in our programs and around the world, and we are deeply saddened by his departure. Our Co-Founder and Co-Chairman, artist Danny Simmons who inspired our mission and has steered the course of the foundation over the years, will continue to serve.
We are resolved to remain focused on the critically important work of Rush Arts and its commitment to educating and empowering children and artists. We keep going.
Sincerely,
Tangie Murray
Executive Director
Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation (Rush Arts) is dedicated to providing underserved youth with contemporary art education, and developing and supporting artists, curators and new audiences.
Rush was founded in 1995 by three brothers: Danny Simmons, visual artist and community builder; media mogul Russell Simmons; and Joseph “Rev. Run” Simmons of the legendary hip-hop group Run-DMC.Their goal was to fill the gap that the disenfranchised and people of color faced in both accessing the arts and exhibition opportunities.
Over the past 20 years with the help of a broad base of friends, collaborators and supporters, Rush have been able to develop our main two program areas – Rush Education art programs for our youth and Rush Arts Galleries supporting and featuring emerging artists nationwide – working together in a seamless way to open up the arts to populations facing hurdles to the joy and benefits of these experiences.
Designed to inspire students, provide positive alternatives to high risk behaviors and support increased academic performance, Rush Education programs- Rush Little Kids, Rush Kids, Rush Teens and Rush Galleries in Schools– directly serve over 3,000 students annually. In addition, each year through our Rush Arts Galleries- Rush Arts Gallery in Chelsea, Manhattan and Corridor Gallery in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn- exhibit the work of over 100 emerging and community-based artists; welcomes over 10,000 gallery visitors; and provides unique opportunities for young people interested in careers in the arts.