Curtis Wallace | The Be Creative Studios | Ypsilanti
Curtis Wallace, a world-renowned portrait artist with over 37 years of professional experience, is the creative force behind The Be Creative Studio in Ypsilanti, Michigan. An award-winning Black artist, Curtis has dedicated his life to using art as a powerful tool for empowerment, self-expression, and connection. Working with students of all ages, from preschoolers to senior citizens, he helps individuals overcome self-doubt and anxiety, encouraging them to explore their talents and embrace their unique creativity. His teaching philosophy is rooted in positivity and affirmations, moving beyond the traditional “right or wrong” mindset in art. Curtis’s impactful work can be found in homes across the globe, displayed at the Ann Arbor District Library, and featured in murals throughout the Ypsilanti and Detroit areas. Through The Be Creative Studio, Curtis continues to inspire a global community, fostering creativity and confidence in every individual he teaches. To see some of Curtis’ world renown artwork click here.
Curtis Wallace, born in Flint, Michigan, and raised in Ypsilanti, has dedicated over 27 years to teaching art, media, and yoga in the Ypsilanti and Ann Arbor public school districts. With a strong commitment to integrating art and technology in education, Curtis has also focused on making his teaching accessible and impactful for special education and special needs children. His passion for teaching, extensive artistic knowledge, positive outlook, and deep-rooted connection to the Ypsilanti community inspired him to establish The Be Creative Studio—a space designed to inspire creativity, foster meaningful connections, and empower individuals of all abilities through innovative art and technology programs.
The Be Creative Studio offers art experiences for students aged 3 and up. Classes are both online and in-person, they host private and community experiences. As well as, community engagements.
The pandemic became a transformative moment for Curtis, inspiring him to expand The Be Creative Studio’s mission and embrace a new, global reach. With agility and foresight, he quickly shifted to online classes, creating a dynamic, virtual art space for 2nd through 12th graders. Through Google Meet, Curtis connected young artists from around the world, uniting families and fostering a creative community that transcended distance. His adaptability and passion for teaching ensured that art remained a powerful link, nurturing creativity and connection across all ages and borders.
