“1520 Arts champions
non-traditional arts by providing platforms resources and opportunities.”

Who we are

Pushing Creative Culture Forward

1520 Arts is a non-profit that provides platforms, resources and opportunities for non-traditional artists. We provide art and culture programming through four core initiatives. For 17 years, 1520 Arts has provided high-quality programming to under-served communities in Utah. We are one of the few organizations in the state dedicated to preserving, teaching, and empowering non-traditional cultures and communities through education, performance, and creative expression.

By removing barriers to equipment and creative resources, 1520 Arts empowers marginalized communities to host and produce their own arts and cultural events, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection across diverse groups.

As we enter 2026, we are feeling refreshed and focused on the future! Over the last decade we have grown from a few people throwing events into a full blown non-profit with a wealth of programs that stretch across many disciplines. Our history is deeply rooted in Hip Hop culture and we will continue to champion Hip Hop & Street Culture by providing education and unique experiences.

We are excited to also expand our reach to other “non-traditional” art forms. Utah is home to so many different cultures and communities that all need access to arts programs and resources. Our new programs and initiatives will be designed to create opportunities and resources for artists that have traditionally found access difficult. You will also see expanded programming at our facility, including more classes, courses and community programming. You will also see us providing more resources and programs designed for local artists, musicians and cultural organizations to create and produce their own works.

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The Program Initiatives that Drive our Organization!

We believe that true inclusion means more than access—it means representation. Our programming is built around Hip-Hop and street culture, art forms that resonate deeply with communities often excluded from mainstream arts organizations. By centering these cultural traditions, we create an environment where students, artists, and audiences see themselves reflected in the work.

1520 Arts Studio

The 1520 Arts Community Center serves as both our headquarters and the heart of our mission. Our facility hosts weekly dance, art, and DJ classes for youth and adults while operating as a community hub, offering affordable space to individuals and groups who often struggle to find accessible venues. Rental clients use the center for dance classes, cultural education, rehearsals, and small events, ensuring underrepresented communities have a place to create, learn, and share their work.

Education

Education programming focuses on education and interaction. Programs teach core values along with the history of Hip Hop culture and applies those values to relevant youth issues.

Programs highlight the value of education, dedication, cooperation, creativity, and being an individual. We deliver these programs to elementary, middle, high school, and college-aged students.

We currently hold adjunct positions and deliver classes at Weber State, BYU, and Westminster University.

1520 Arts Events

1520 Arts Events delivers community-based events and programming through out the year. We host approximately one art and dance focused event per quarter.

Our main event is the 1520 Block Party, an event that celebrates Hip Hop and Street Culture. The event features local artists, vendors, performances, music, and community engagement opportunities.

We also partner with business and organizations like Red Bull to deliver collabrative events that provide opportunities to dance both within and outside of Utah. These events include The Utah Arts Festival, Red Bull Dance Your Style, Urban Arts Festival, Ogden Arts Festival, Zoo Brew, and others.

Artist Development

1520 Arts facilitates a variety of programs designed to help artists grow and develp thier skills. Our “Artist Support Program” provides resourses to artist to produce local events or to travel for professional development.

The “Community Mural” program provides upcoming artists with an opportunity to gain real world experience and grow their portfolio for future jobs.

Additionally, our facility provides about 75 hrs a week of free access to artists to train and develop new skills.

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Who we are

Our History

James “Pyro” Karren and Joshua “Text” Perkins co-founded the organization in 2009. From 2006-2008 the bboy scene in Utah had seen a sharp decline. Many of the older dancers were persuing other life goals and there was a lack of young talent to take their place.

“The Bboy Federation” initially started as a series of events called the X-Series. Pyro and Text used this event to set up exhibitions for both younger and seasoned dancers. This was done with the hope of putting a little more energy into the scene. It worked and it worked well. In 2009 Pyro & Text decided that the scene was ready for a little more. They had been approached to do a league style competition by an out of state organization. The deal for that league ultimately fell through, but the idea had already been put it motion. The two decided to trim the fat from the league and restructure it so that it benefited the scene. They wanted to create something that provided good events for dances and something that is cost effective for a young scene.

2009 marked the first year of the league and brought with it the name The Bboy Federation. In 2012, The Bboy Federation was awarded 510c3 non-profit status and began to expand it’s programs. This included the creation of after school programs (2013), a stage production called They Reminisce (2014) and a full time facility called The HERC (2016). We became 1520 Arts in ( 2019 ). Now in its 16th year, 1520 Arts is expanding its reach to connect with other cultural communities!

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Programs

Meet Our Board

Joshua Perkins

Executive Director

Co-founder and Executive Director of 1520 Arts. He has spent the last 17 years shaping and guidng the organization, it’s programs and it’s values. Josh believes in setting a solid foundation and understanding of the culture and context of Hip Hop. He hopes to continue pushing the organization to grow, develop into a community staple of arts and education.

Chris Owens

Creative Director

Creative Director of 1520 Arts, where he’s spent the last 15 years shaping the brand’s identity from the ground up. He has played a key role in defining the tone and visual language of the organization—guiding how 1520 shows up across events, social media, and community initiatives. Through his creative leadership, Chris has helped grow 1520 into a platform that champions street-level artistry and pushes creative culture forward.

Josie Marine

Assistant Director

Josie is dedicated to fostering community engagement through Hip Hop and non-traditional arts. Playing a key role in expanding the organization’s reach, developing strategic partnerships, and curating dynamic events that celebrate creativity and cultural expression. Her work ensures that 1520 Arts continues to evolve as a hub for artistic innovation and inclusivity.

Alex Allan

Board Member

1520 Arts

Transparency Resources

We value transparency as an organization. Follow the links to see our annual report and other docs associated with our non-profit status. If you are looking for photos and videos of us, check out our Media Kit!

Media Kit

Annual Reports

A summary of our yearly activities, achievements and financial performance. View current and previous years reports.

Annual Reports

990’s

Our annual public tax filings.

990 Filings

Determination Letter

1520 Arts Determination Letter for non-profit status verification.

Determination Letter

Annual Report

Check out our 2025 Annual Report!

Our annual report is a summary of our yearly activities, achievements, and financial performance.

providing transparency to supporters and the community by showcasing impact, sharing stories, and demonstrating how funds were used to advance the organization’s mission.

View Annual Report