R.I.A.

Real Innovative Artists (R.I.A.) curates events and exhibitions that foster cross-disciplinary collaboration, enrich cultural experiences, and cultivate prosperity in our community of artists.  

The name RIA is simple, yet deeply meaningful. Inspired by Ayu’s mother, Ria, and shaped with early guidance from Camryn’s father, it stands as a shared tribute to the love, wisdom, and creative spirit they both passed down.  

It all started on the first day of school at Columbia College Chicago, where Ayu and Camryn first met, both nervous yet excited to start a new chapter of their lives. Their pursuit of dreaming while studying abroad in Paris inspired the idea that would grow into RIA: Real Innovative Artists.  

RIA’s journey has been anything but straightforward. In the beginning, we were stretching every resource just to keep the vision alive. Finding the right team, building trust, and forming a real community took time—and we’re still learning every day. We’re actively working to secure the resources needed to compensate artists fairly and strengthen the organization from within, finding the formula that works and building RIA into a hub where our community can truly come together. 

RIA is a collective journey— one that began as a dream, grew with collaboration, and now has evolved into a vibrant community of multi-facited artists. As RIA continues to expand through new projects and we invite you to come be a part of the experience.