Who We Are

Creativity connects people across all generations, cultures, and experiences. It sparks curiosity, builds confidence, and affirms that every story carries value. Next Hero Up exists to ensure artists have the trust, tools, and support they need to explore their creative potential without barriers.

Founded by Seattle educator and artist Donte Felder, Next Hero Up builds on decades of work creating pathways for young artists through programs rooted in mentorship, curiosity, and the deep belief that every voice deserves to be heard.

Founded by Seattle educator and artist Donte Felder,
Next Hero Up builds on decades of work creating pathways for young artists through programs rooted in mentorship, curiosity, and the deep belief that every voice deserves to be heard.

Our Values

Access:

We believe every artist deserves the opportunity to create, regardless of background or circumstance. Our work removes barriers, ensuring creativity is not reserved for the few, but is open to all.

Trust:

We trust artists to lead their own journeys. By offering flexible support and mentorship, we create space for exploration, self-direction, and the freedom to take creative risks.

Growth:

We see creativity as a lifelong process of learning and becoming. Our programs nurture this growth by meeting artists where they are and supporting their next step, wherever that may lead.

Community:

Art thrives through connection. We bring artists, mentors, and communities together to share knowledge, celebrate progress, and create something greater than any one of us could build alone.

Curiosity:

We approach every project with openness and imagination. Curiosity drives us to keep learning, questioning, and discovering new ways to create access and impact through art.

Our Core Initiatives

Creative Productions

We lead original, collaborative projects that unite artists, educators, and community partners to create work across disciplines - from graphic novels to film to theater - fostering connection while bringing creative visions to life.

Artist Fellowships and Scholarships

Through flexible funding and mentorship, we support early-career artists, youth, and adult learners as they explore new ideas, strengthen their craft, and advance their creative goals.

Education and Outreach

In partnership with schools and community organizations, we deliver arts-based learning experiences that build skills and confidence through writing, theater, filmmaking, and storytelling.

Creative Equipment Access Program

Our growing creative tool library provides access to essential equipment and technology, reducing financial barriers and enabling artists to develop skills and produce high-quality work.

"We envision a world where creativity and the arts are catalysts for connection and happiness."

Donte Felder (Founder and Executive Director)

Our Core Initiatives

Creative Productions

Artist Fellowships and Scholarships

Through flexible funding and mentorship, we support early-career artists, youth, and adult learners as they explore new ideas, strengthen their craft, and advance their creative goals.

Education and Outreach

In partnership with schools and community organizations, we deliver arts-based learning experiences that build skills and confidence through writing, theater, filmmaking, and storytelling.

Creative Equipment Access Program

Our growing creative tool library provides access to essential equipment and technology, reducing financial barriers and enabling artists to develop skills and produce high-quality work.

Our Core Initiatives

Creative Productions

Artist Fellowships and Scholarships

Through flexible funding and mentorship, we support early-career artists, youth, and adult learners as they explore new ideas, strengthen their craft, and advance their creative goals.

Education and Outreach

In partnership with schools and community organizations, we deliver arts-based learning experiences that build skills and confidence through writing, theater, filmmaking, and storytelling.

Creative Equipment Access Program

Our growing creative tool library provides access to essential equipment and technology, reducing financial barriers and enabling artists to develop skills and produce high-quality work.