30 Years of Creativity:
Relive the Magic. Support the Future.
Featured Photo Gallery
What a Night! Project Create’s 30th Anniversary Gala Was One for the Books
Ladies and gentlemen, friends, family, and beloved supporters…what a night we had! If the goal was to celebrate 30 years of creativity, community, and impact, we absolutely nailed it. From the moment guests walked into Arena Stage, you could feel the energy: part art exhibit, part reunion, part dance party, and entirely unforgettable.
We kicked things off in style; a festive drink in one hand and a phone auction bidding war happening in the other, all while mingling among one-of-a-kind artworks. But the real magic was when Valentine & Friends got the party started with Go-Go beats that made it impossible to stand still. Amber Mimz delivered soulful vocals that hit right in the feels. And Rev Rollins (Oliver Wells) kept the vibe alive with a set that had heads nodding, proving once and for all that great music and great people are an unstoppable combination. Then, just when we thought we’d caught our breath, Artist-in-Residence Am’ad (Ahmad Woodard) took the mic and reminded us why words, rhythm, and storytelling are at the heart of everything we do.
And then came the heart of the evening. Proud community member and parent Ana Harsley, Artist-in-Residence John Johnson, and our very own Director of Project Create, Christie Walser, delivered heartfelt speeches that reminded us why we were all there and why we keep moving ahead.
30th Anniversary Video
Read the Night's Blog Post:
Project Create at 30: A Night to Remember
From the moment guests arrived at our 30th Anniversary Gala at Arena Stage, they were warmly welcomed into a night full of creativity, connection, and celebration. The evening kicked off with a lively cocktail hour, where attendees had the chance to explore stunning artwork created by students and local artists, and enjoy carefully curated hors…
Keep the Celebration Going and Help Us Grow!
The party may be over, but the impact is just beginning. If you were inspired by the talent, energy, and stories shared at the gala, you can help us keep the momentum going. Help us reach our 30th anniversary fundraising goal by making a donation today! Think of it as investing in the next generation of artists — except instead of cocktails, you’re serving up opportunity, confidence, and a lifelong love of the arts.
Check out our Gala photos here:
Click the button below to be redirected to our full Gala photo gallery.
Missed the Auction? You’re in Luck!
The gala may be over, but the art lives on! A few incredible pieces from our talented painters, photographers, and mixed-media artists are still available. If you missed your live auction or had to end the evening early, there is still a chance to take some home.
From April 9 - 20, 2025, we’re hosting an exclusive online art auction featuring stunning works from our talented community of artists.
Every bid supports Project Create’s mission, so snag a masterpiece and keep the creativity going!
Browse and bid here:
Over the past three decades Project Create has had the immense pleasure of empowering young artists, igniting creativity and cultivating empowerment in our community.
This year, we reflect on the journey that has brought us to this milestone. From a single grain of sand, planted by our founder Rev. John W. Wimberly, Jr. in 1994, our organization has grown into a thriving reef of artistic expression, nurturing young minds and skills in digital media, music production, art therapy, and beyond.
Today, we celebrate not only our own growth, but also the countless pearls we've helped nurture – each one a shining testament to the transformative power of creativity and community support.
Our History
For three decades, Project Create has been transforming lives through the power of art. What began in 1994 as a small initiative by Rev. John W. Wimberly, Jr. has blossomed into a vibrant community hub in Historic Anacostia. We've grown, evolved, and touched countless lives, empowering D.C.'s youth to find their voice, express their creativity, and build a brighter future. As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we honor our journey and the incredible young artists who inspire us every day.
Project Create Timeline
30 Years of History
