We are The Betti Ono Foundation. A bold manifestation of liberation and power. A new hybrid entity of nonprofit foundation and social enterprise. We are Black women and survivor-led. Our mission is to build power through culture. We amplify the voices and lives of artists, and celebrate the culture of everyday people. Our vision and creative practice embodies the bold, curious, and unapologetic spirit of our namesakes Betty Mabry Davis and Yoko Ono. We value art making as a form and function of activism, self-determination, community transformation, and cultural resilience. We are dedicated to amplifying the work and lives of Black, Brown, Immigrant, Indigenous, and LGBTQ+ artists and communities.
ORIGIN
Named by Essence Magazine as one of the 5 reasons to visit Oakland, Betti Ono was founded in 2010 by Oakland native, Anyka Howard (aka Barber).
From 2011 - 2021, the Betti Ono global headquarters featured an cultural arts venue, gallery, and art+design store in the heart of Downtown Oakland's Black Arts Movement & Business District (BAMBD). As a neighborhood anchor and cultural hub, Betti Ono offered year-round arts and culture experiences, exhibitions and public programs that inspired and empowered. The art + design store featured Betti Ono branded products, original art, limited edition prints, books, plus, art + design goods and supplies by makers from Oakland, California and around the globe.
Betti Ono has received numerous awards for its artist's engagement, exhibitions, programs and community partnership including Best of the Bay 2018 ‘Boutique Art Gallery” by Oakland Magazine, Nominations and/or winning ‘Best Gallery’ by East Bay Express readers in 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, and 2014. Betti Ono has also received Alameda County Supervisors' commendation for service in the community in 2017 and 2016, and the Beneficial State Bank 2016 Oakland Indie “Social Changemaker” Award.
EVOLUTION
In 2022, Betti Ono is taking time to navigate this evolution of our organization and focus on three key strategies:
SUPPORT
We are grateful for the love and care of our community! Here are three ways you can support Betti Ono right now:
- You can make a tax deductible donation that goes directly to us HERE!
- If you’re interested in joining the team, please visit us at www.bettiono.com/team to learn more.
- You can subscribe to our list and get news, updates, and special offers!