"Empowering Communities One Colorful Step at a Time" - F.I.C

Free in Color was founded in 2019 by artist Marlissa (Lissa) Karpeh as an arts initiative providing free access to social arts programs for youth in immigrant communities. While studying fine arts at Saint Cloud University, Karpeh explored themes of struggle, community, and healing in her artistic work, highlighting cultural oppression and the dual consciousness experienced by those with multicultural identities. Her passion for giving back through free art programs inspired the creation of Free in Color.

The mission of Free in Color grew to embrace inclusivity for all communities by utilizing community arts as a form of healing and social action. After earning a Master’s in Adlerian Psychology and Art Therapy, Karpeh expanded Free in Color beyond its original focus on free art programs. It now offers a comprehensive range of programs that use art as a tool for healing, fostering connection, creating spaces of belonging, and addressing social issues.

Today, Free in Color is a community-based initiative that combines therapy, arts education, and advocacy to empower individuals and communities. Through its work, the initiative seeks to bridge divides, promote understanding, and provide a platform for collective healing and growth.