A Cultural Beginning
Josh Arias with family and community members, whose support and shared experiences have helped shape his work as an artist and community leader.
Born in 1991 in Los Angeles, California, Josh Arias’ story begins with roots grounded in resilience and culture. As the son of Salvadoran immigrants, he was raised with a deep sense of selflessness and expression. Not long after his birth, his family relocated to Lexington, Nebraska, where those early values would continue to shape who he would become not just as an artist, but as a community leader.
Finding His Artistic Voice
From an early age, art was always present. It wasn’t confined to a single medium or style; instead, it was something Josh explored freely, experimenting with different forms of creativity. But it was spray paint that ultimately became his voice. Through bold colors and large-scale expression, he found both comfort and purpose.
Education Meets Purpose
After graduating from Lexington High School in 2009, Josh’s path led him to the University of Nebraska at Kearney, where he earned a degree in social work. That experience would prove to be just as influential as his artistic journey. It deepened his understanding of people, community, and the importance of service ultimately shaping his mission to use art as a tool for positive change.
Josh Arias, a Nebraska artist and co-founder of Impact Art, uses creativity as a tool for connection, service and community building.
The Birth of Impact Art
In 2017, alongside his friend and mentor Derek Rusher, Josh co-founded the Kearney-based nonprofit Impact Art. What started as a shared vision quickly grew into a movement. Together, they set out on a mission to bring meaningful public art across Nebraska. Art that doesn’t just beautify, but educates, empowers, and inspires hope.
Art as a Community Connector
Through murals and community-driven projects, Josh has become a catalyst for connection. His work often reaches beyond the surface, addressing deeper issues and creating spaces where people feel seen and heard. One of his strongest passions lies in working with youth providing creative outlets that encourage expression, confidence, and growth.
Advocating Through Art
More recently, Josh has turned his focus toward mental health advocacy. Recognizing the urgent need to break down stigma, he uses both his art and his platform to start conversations around seeking help and supporting one another. It’s a natural extension of his work in social service meeting people where they are and reminding them they’re not alone.
Spray paint cans used in Josh Arias’ mural work, the medium that became central to his artistic voice.
A Lasting Impact
Josh Arias is more than an artist. He is a storyteller, a mentor, and a changemaker. His journey is a reminder that art isn’t just about what we see, it’s about what we feel, what we learn, and how we come together.
And in every piece he creates, there’s a message woven into the color, hope is always within reach.
Gallery Dates and Hours:
Josh is one of three artists exhibiting this month in the Columbus Art Gallery.
Silent Walls Loud Voices
Exhibit Showing
May 4 – May 28
Monday – Thursday (1 – 5 pm)
Saturday (1 – 5 pm)
2500 14th St., Second Floor. Columbus Community Building
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