Current Programming

Community Trauma Response Program

825 Arts will provide for the acute need for community access to safe, healing, creative spaces through their new Community Trauma Response Program. The goal is for this to be a responsive program available to the public any time there are events that provoke collective grief or trauma. In addition to offering creative resources, 825 will provide the community with information that directs them to low-cost/affordable mental health services, access to emotional and spiritual healers and bodyworkers, and places to find free food for people in need.

Artist of The Month

Every month, we choose an artist from our community to spotlight & uplift! These artists are featured on our website and social media and participate in our monthly B-art-BQ.

March’s Artist of the Month is DJ and creative Neeka Jackson!

1. ) What inspires you to create? I create because it’s how I connect with myself, with others, and with the world around me. Whether I’m tufting, DJing, or experimenting with new ideas, it all comes down to storytelling and energy. I love bringing people together, making space for self-expression, and turning emotions into something tangible—whether it’s a track that moves people or a piece of art that sparks conversation. Creativity is my way of processing life and building community, and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

2.) When did you become an artist?  I feel like I’ve always been an artist, it’s just part of who I am. As a kid, I was always creating… whether it was making things with my hands or messing around with music. I used to make mixtapes by recording over my granny’s church tapes, and she was so mad! A lot of people don’t know that I also used to work in the fashion industry and know how to make clothes, so creativity has always been second nature to me. Over time, I leaned into it more, exploring different mediums like tufting and DJing, and realizing that creativity isn’t just something I do, it’s how I move through the world. So if I had to pick a moment, I’d say I didn’t “become” an artist, I just finally embraced that I’ve always been one.

3.) Where are you from? I just say I’m from the Twin Cities. I spent time in both St. Paul and Minneapolis growing up, moving around a lot in foster care, so I never really felt tied to one specific place. But the Twin Cities as a whole shaped me. That’s home to me.

4.) Who is your favorite artist ? It’s hard to pick just one because I’m inspired by so many artists across different mediums. But one artist I really admire is Es Devlin, she’s an incredible stage designer and visual artist who creates these immersive, mind-blowing experiences. Her ability to blend light, space, and storytelling is something I really connect with. But honestly, my inspiration comes from everywhere—music, textiles, street art, even everyday moments.