NEW BEDFORD, MA – What started as a single workshop in the heart of New Bedford has grown into a transformative force across Southeastern Massachusetts. This June, SketchyGOichie DRAW! proudly celebrated its one-year anniversary—a milestone that marks over 50 interactive digital art sessions designed to inspire and empower the next generation of creative leaders.

Founded by professional illustrator Roger Andrews, the program launched on June 22, 2024, with a simple mission: bring high-quality digital arts education to underserved communities in New Bedford and Fall River. In that first year, the initiative evolved into a registered nonprofit, unlocking new opportunities to expand access and help low- and moderate-income (LMI) youth explore viable careers in the creative arts.

“Creating a nonprofit wing of SketchyGOichie was a pivotal moment,” says Andrews. “It allows us to run alongside our for-profit work while opening the door to more opportunities for underserved and underprivileged communities to take part in our art program—completely free of charge.”

With over 63% of New Bedford Public School students and nearly 80% in Fall River qualifying for free or reduced lunch, the program serves a vital role in providing accessible and inclusive arts programming to children who need it most.

Since its first session, SketchyGOichie DRAW! has:

• Delivered 50+ workshops across New Bedford, Fall River, Somerset, Westport, and even at RI Comic Con.
• Been awarded grants by both the Fall River Cultural Council and the Dartmouth Cultural Council (January 2025).
• Partnered with creative hubs like Co-Creative Center New Bedford, SoCo Art Labs, FRACC, Art Pop Club, and NorthStar Learning Centers to bring digital illustration to life through iPads and industry-standard software like Procreate.

To celebrate its anniversary, SketchyGOichie DRAW! will launch a second annual summer workshop, expanding to two locations: Co-Creative Center New Bedford and a new site at SoCo Art Labs in Fall River.

The workshops are led by Roger Andrews and Ashlianna Felix, a graphic designer and illustrator with a background in early childhood education. Felix, whose credits include work with Disney, DreamWorks, and Paramount, brings a thoughtful, student-centered approach to instruction that has been instrumental to the program’s inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.

“The SketchyGOichie digital drawing program has been a fantastic addition to our offerings,” says Dena Haden, Director of Co-Creative Center. “It’s truly inspiring to see children engage with art in such a dynamic and accessible way. Programs like SketchyGOichie are vital for empowering young artists and building essential digital literacy skills.”

“All kids deserve access to creative spaces,” adds Allison Faunce, Founder of Art Pop. “SketchyGOichie creates that space. Their programming bridges the gap between professional artists and budding creatives—and it does so with heart, joy, and intention.”

As SketchyGOichie DRAW! heads into its second year, the nonprofit is actively seeking new partnerships, sponsors, and opportunities to expand its reach.

About SketchyGOichie DRAW!

SketchyGOichie DRAW! is a nonprofit digital art program that empowers youth—including those with varied learning abilities—through structured workshops in digital illustration. With a focus on creativity, technology, and inclusive education, the program prepares students for a future where digital skills and artistic expression intersect.

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