About Us
Backyard Artists is a non-profit 501(c)(3) founded by Ryan Marsh in 2022. BYA now operates with a dedicated team of 10 volunteers from various careers and backgrounds in art, writing, media, and non-profit work.
Since it’s inception, BYA has:
Worked with 250 emerging artists of different mediums, primarily in Boise, Idaho.
Granted $10,157 in total to 32 emerging artists.
Hosted over 20 events and counting in the Treasure Valley, including readings, galleries, trash pick-ups, open mics, workshops and one-of-a-kind creative community events including Speed Friending and Art by the River.
Showcased artists’ work in collaboration with other local organizations, like Surel’s Place, JUMP Boise, and more.
Established a biannual publication — Paper Plane Press — created for emerging writers to publish their work and share with the community through launch party events.
Backyard Artists empowers emerging artists in Idaho’s Treasure Valley by providing professional opportunities through community-driven exhibitions, literary events, project grants, and strategic partnerships.
Our vision is to cultivate a vibrant, inclusive arts community — in Boise and beyond — where emerging artists feel welcomed to thrive, collaborate, and have a lasting impact on the developing cultural landscape.
