Education Programs
Artist Space Trust is proud to launch AST Foundations, the first housing education program in the U.S. designed specifically for low-income artists.
Developed with regional partners and housing experts, this free workshop series is designed to help artists build stability, navigate complex housing systems, and remain rooted in the Bay Area’s cultural landscape.
Artists will gain access to resources on affordable housing, co-ownership, estate planning, down payment and rental assistance, and much more.
Upcoming Classes: June & July
Leaving a Legacy: Estate Planning Essentials for the LGBTQ+ Community
Happy Pride! Learn about wills and trusts with special consideration for the queer community. Presented by licensed estate planning attorney and counselor-at-law Debra M. Garcia. In this 90 minute presentation with Q&A, attendees will learn what an estate plan is and why it is important to have one in order to leave a lasting legacy—to family or to community.
June 24, 2025 | 6pm PST | Virtual
The Blueprint: Artist Space Trust and the Community Land Trust Model
Explore how AST uses the Community Land Trust (CLT) model to create permanently-affordable housing and creative space for artists, paving paths to equity and stability. In this one hour presentation by AST Staff, attendees will learn what a CLT is, its historical connection to global civil rights activism, and how CLT community ownership works for low income renters and first-time home buyers.
July 15, 2025 | 6pm PST | Virtual
Sign up for our mailing list to learn when to register for the rest of our series!
Artist Access: Low Income Housing
Learn the ins and outs of the low-income housing landscape in the Bay Area. Many artists qualify for low-income programs such as Section 8 and down payment assistance, but lack clarity on eligibility and how to apply. This class will provide insight into the opportunities that exist for low-income artists to rent and/or buy, and how to take the next steps.
Buying Together: Creative Paths to Homeownership
Learn about the key considerations when considering buying property together with friends or family, including legal, financial, and ideological considerations. Whether you want to start an artist co-op, or buy a single-family home with some friends, this class will provide an introduction to the landscape of collaborative homebuying.