We are fundraising for FREE after school art programming, art classes, and events for youth and families.

WAHI Studio INC. is a 501c3 art education nonprofit that provides free art opportunities with a focus on mental health. WAHI is chooses the community, inspiring the next generation of creatives, mental health awareness, and supporting local tourism alongside the arts.

Jessica Tomaino is the founder, executive director and instructor of WAHI Studio. “Miss Jess” or "Art Mom" is how her students know her. Her education is a Bachelor Degree in Hospitality Tourism & Recreation Event Management from Niagara University and an Associate Degree in Fine Art from Niagara County Community College. She has been a freelance artist specializing in pet portraits since 2011, chalk artist since 2013, and independent art instructor since 2017, and muralist since 2018. She founded WAHI Studio INC. on August 31st, 2020. She wanted art to be accessible as a child and would have loved these programs. She set out to make her dream a reality with WAHI Studio in 2020 when using art to cope was at an all time high. Now, four years later, we are looking to offer even more free art opportunities in Niagara County.

WAHI Studio INC. is utilized as a resource for creative art programming and activities through collaboration and in service to other organizations in Western New York. We work for Hilbert College, Canisius University, Liberty Partnership Program, the Kenan Center, Lockport Spokes, and others. Hire us for art activities at your special event (festivals, birthday parties, group outings or teambuilding).

Our main fundraiser and largest event is The Lockport Chalk Walk. This treasured event was brought back in 2023 by the Lockport Community Farmers Market and WAHI Studio. The chalk walk is a beginner-friendly, noncompetitive event featuring over 30 artists of all levels and backgrounds. This is a free family-friendly event with something for everyone to enjoy! The festival is slated for July 19th, 2025! Sponsorships and donations received around that event will be put towards art programming as well.

Help WAHI Studio reach their goal of raising $20,000 for their art programming by making a donation! With your gift, you are backing their incredible work to make the therapeutic magic of art more accessible for all. AND supporting the work they put into bringing the Lockport Chalk Walk back each year. We will continue to find support through grants and sponsorship but we know that EVERY LITTLE BIT matters. Thank you for being part of our tribe!

Our Main Location: WAHI Studio INC. 240 Michigan Street, Lockport, NY 14094

Off Site Pop Up Locations: The Hub in Middleport, Newfane, the Kenan Center in Lockport, and others.

WAHI Studio Free Art Programs 2025

By Wahi Studio Inc

WAHI Studio Free Art Programs 2025

After School Art Clubs, Free Art Classes, and Art Events (Lockport Chalk Walk)