Artfully began with a powerful, undeniable belief: art transforms lives. Yet, a massive gap persists, especially when it comes to disadvantaged youth. While 91% of Americans believe that the arts are vital to a well-rounded education, minority students often lack access to quality arts education, earning approximately 30% fewer arts credits compared to their non-minority peers.
Our vision is to bridge that gap with passion and purpose. By empowering you to explore your own artistic passions, we’re able to bring the wonder of arts to disadvantaged children nationwide. Every lesson you take helps ignite new talent, fosters self-expression and builds a stronger, more creative community for everyone.
Artfully was founded on a shared commitment to the arts’ transformative power and a deep desire for lasting social change, especially when it comes to our disadvantaged youth.
Justin Holbrook is a seasoned technology executive, serial entrepreneur, and board member of multiple companies. His artistic journey began at the Carver Creative and Performing Arts Center in Montgomery, Alabama, where he studied piano and composition. A graduate of Harvard Law School with a liberal arts foundation from Georgetown University, he credits his early training as an artist with honing his unique blend of business acumen and creative vision.
Justin’s career spans senior leadership roles in business, academia, and the military. He is the co-founder of the AI research lab Zindango and previously served as CEO of Beckett Collectibles. A passionate advocate for connecting young artists with teachers who can help them flourish, Justin continues to compose music and mentor young artists as a way to give back to the community that helped to sculpt him into the innovator that he is today.
Ashley C. Carter is a seasoned executive, brand consultant, and lifelong entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience developing artisan and luxury products and brands from the grass roots level.
Ashley is currently VP of Business Development for Marguerite Guitreau, a boutique brand and product consultancy for emerging brands preparing to scale. Previously, she spent 15 years as founder and CEO of Goldbug Studio, a bespoke story-based gift collection sold exclusively through prestigious retailers like Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, Anthropologie, Sake Fifth Ave, and John Derian & Co.
Ashley is an accomplished singer songwriter and active collaborator in North Carolina’s Triangle music scene.
Ryan Coleman is a creative director and copywriter with over 25 years of experience leading award-winning campaigns. He has worked in ad agencies from New York to Charlotte, where his work has been recognized nationally and internationally for its creative impact. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and a minor in creative writing from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a foundation that has shaped his unique voice and strategic approach to advertising/marketing.
A devoted husband and father, Ryan’s passion for family and community is a source of inspiration for his work. A lifelong Tar Heel and a nearly native North Carolinian, he balances his professional life with his love of the outdoors. He believes that the same creative vision required for his work is essential for building a life full of purpose, both in and out of the office.
Dr. Ronnie Laney is a practicing physician, medical director, board member, and co-founder of 5 Prime, a media company that produces medical content for radio and governmental and educational institutions.
A multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, and composer, Ronnie believes in the transformative powers of mentorship and healing through science and music. The passion that drives Ronnie to better the lives of his patients also fuels his creative process. When he’s not practicing medicine, Ronnie can be found writing music, singing, and playing guitar with one of his rock bands or expanding his skills on drums and bass guitar.
An NC native, Ronnie holds a B.S. in Biology and a Master of Public Health from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and also completed his residency at UNC Hospitals.
Tom McFadden is the President of Jacob Tyler, a nationally recognized creative and branding agency. A copywriter by trade and storyteller at heart, Tom built his career around crafting messages that move people. He’s also a passionate supporter of the arts, a regular in San Diego’s live music scene, and a firm believer that creativity is the spark behind every great idea—and every great community.
Register with Artfully today and begin a creative journey that changes lives – yours and theirs.
