The 2024 application is officially open! Proposals will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Click here to apply!

The Ara Jo Memorial Fund (AJMF) supports local, community-based artists and projects that benefit the East Bay and carry on Ara Christina Jo’s legacy and passion for alternative artistic expression and inclusive programming. Established in 2018 by Rock Paper Scissors Collective (RPSC) in close collaboration with Ara's family, AJMF was made possible thanks to the generous donations from family and friends honoring Ara in the aftermath of the 2016 Ghost Ship Fire, which tragically cut her life and the lives of thirty-five other victims all too short.

East Bay artists of all ages and levels of experience are strongly encouraged to apply. As a visual artist, graphic designer, curator, and musician, Ara linked many of the diverse communities in the Bay Area. She personified pure, unconditional love, supporting and encouraging those around her however she could. We hope to keep Ara's collaborative energy and caring spirit alive by supporting projects that align with her life's pursuits.

Recent Projects

AAPI mental health zine, to be launched for pre-order May 2023!
Cut Fruit Collective

“Thirteen Ways of Looking at Kasper’s” and “Adeline Graffiti Palace” exhibitions (multiple locations)
Malcolm Ryder

Juried printmaking exhibition with prize riso editions in partnership with Max’s Garage / Tiny Splendor
RPSC Gallery Department

Sponsorship of stipends for presenters at
Bay Area Queer Zine Fest

Intergenerational cooking classes and recipe book
Fredericko Alvarado

Carpal Trouble, a zine about navigating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome as a visual artist
Pleasure Faith Illustration

Custom T-shirts for 60th anniversary of the Oakland “sister city” project with Fukuoka, Japan
Eric Murphy

Open jazz recording session and development of press materials
Darryl Rowe

Marketing materials for the Oakland Youth Art Explosion
Joyce Gordon Gallery

Youth zine-making workshop
Crisis Club Gallery

“Notions” exhibition
Click here to visit the project page!
by Susan Nakata, Emma Ishii, Andrew Kodama + Owen Goodwin in collaboration with Susan Nakata

And many more since 2018!