About us
PATH – Artes e Cultura is a non-profit cultural association based in the central region of Portugal. Established to expand access to high-quality artistic and cultural experiences, PATH promotes creativity, learning, and community engagement through workshops, exhibitions, retreats, and educational programmes. The association is committed to fostering cultural enrichment and supporting the development of artistic practice within the region.
Mission
Our mission is to strengthen the cultural landscape of central Portugal by providing accessible artistic opportunities for residents, visitors, and emerging creators. PATH is dedicated to advancing arts education, promoting cultural exchange, and contributing to the social and cultural vitality of the communities we serve.
Vision
PATH envisions a vibrant cultural environment where individuals of all ages can explore, create, and connect through the arts. We aim to establish a sustainable arts ecosystem that supports artistic growth, honours local heritage, and encourages meaningful participation in cultural life. Over time, PATH will expand its programming to include artist residencies, annual exhibitions, and community-focused initiatives that anchor the arts as a key component of regional development.
History and Purpose
PATH was founded by artist and cultural practitioner Jaleh, who brings more than a decade of professional experience in the non-profit sector in the United States. Before establishing her artistic career, she served as the Director of Development and Communication at College Possible Washington, where she specialised in organisational development, programme communication, and strategic fundraising.
She also served as an Arts Commissioner for the City of Tukwila, Washington, where she contributed to guiding municipal arts funding and developing cultural opportunities for communities in South Seattle. This experience deepened her commitment to accessible arts programming and informed her understanding of how cultural initiatives can strengthen local communities.
Her artistic journey began during the 2020 global lockdown, when painting became a daily practice alongside her professional work. As her audience and artistic practice grew, she transitioned into full-time independent artmaking and, in 2021, relocated to Portugal. Living in the central region highlighted a notable gap in the availability of arts programming outside major cities such as Lisbon and Porto. PATH emerged as a response to this need: an organisation designed to bring culturally enriching experiences to a region with great potential for artistic engagement.
What We Do
PATH develops and presents a range of artistic and cultural programmes, including:
– Workshops and Educational Activities for adults, families, and children
– Creative Retreats welcoming participants from Portugal and abroad
– Community Arts Initiatives that encourage participation and cultural connection
– Exhibitions and Artistic Events that highlight both local and international artistic voices
These initiatives are grounded in principles of accessibility, cultural exchange, and artistic excellence.
Values
PATH operates according to the following core values:
– Inclusivity: Creating welcoming, accessible spaces for people of all backgrounds.
– Artistic Integrity: Upholding high standards of creative practice and cultural stewardship.
– Community Engagement: Strengthening local cultural life through meaningful participation.
– Sustainability: Building long-term structures that support regional artistic development.
Looking Ahead
PATH is currently establishing its foundational programmes and organisational structure. As the association develops, it will expand its offerings to include an artist residency programme, an annual exhibition series, and a dedicated cultural space that will serve as a centre for artistic practice, community engagement, and cultural dialogue.