(JERSEY CITY, NJ) -- Art House Productions has announced the launch of the Javiera Rodriguez Legacy Art Fund, a new microgrant program honoring the life and spirit of beloved artist and social worker Javiera “Javi” Rodriguez.

Javi was a dedicated social worker at Becton Regional High School in East Rutherford, NJ, known for her fierce advocacy, compassion, and commitment to the students and families she served. She was also a gifted artist, jewelry designer, and maker under the name Javiera Magaly. A cherished member of the Art House community, Javi volunteered at the annual Snow Ball Gala year after year. Her sudden passing in April 2020, during the earliest days of the COVID-19 pandemic, left an immeasurable void in her community and in the lives of all who knew and loved her.

In tribute to Javi’s enduring legacy, Art House will award ten $1,000 microgrants annually to artists and teachers. These grants reflect Javi’s two great passions: nurturing creativity and empowering young people to thrive.

“At a time when artists and educators are being asked to do more with less, this fund offers meaningful support and a reminder that generosity and creativity can be transformative forces,” said Meredith Burns, Executive Artistic Director of Art House Productions. “Javi believed every young person deserves the opportunity to dream and create. Through this fund, we’re honoring that belief and ensuring her spirit continues to uplift others.”

Each year on April 2nd, Art House gathers to celebrate Javi’s life. This year’s gathering marked a major step forward with the official creation of the Javiera Rodriguez Legacy Art Fund. The initiative is designed not only to provide financial relief, but also to reaffirm the essential role of the arts in education and community life.

“We see firsthand how powerful art can be for healing, for connection, and for joy,” said Andrea McKenna, Gallery Director at Art House. “Javi was my best friend and a force to be reckoned with. This fund allows that force to continue on. It’s about more than money—it’s about honoring a legacy of love, service, and artistic spirit.”

The Javiera Rodriguez Legacy Art Fund is made possible thanks to generous donations from individuals and community members, especially those who contributed during Hudson Gives, who believe in the power of the arts and the importance of access for all. Contributions of any amount can be made through the Art House website.

Art House Productions is a cornerstone of Jersey City’s vibrant cultural landscape. The organization provides critical opportunities for emerging and established artists—especially BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and disabled artists—to develop, present, and share their work through exhibitions, theater, music, dance, comedy, multi-arts festivals, and arts education. By offering free or low-cost programming, Art House ensures that everyone—regardless of income or background—can engage with the arts.

To donate to the Javiera Rodriguez Legacy Art Fund or learn more, visit: arthouseproductions.org

To apply for the legacy fund, click here.

Art House Productions is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the performing and visual arts at 345 Marin Boulevard in Jersey City, New Jersey. Through theater productions, visual art exhibitions, and community programs, Art House fosters creativity, inclusivity, and accessibility across all disciplines.

Support for Art House’s programs in 2025 is provided by an Anonymous American Foundation; the Arts in Education Program and the Hudson County History Partnership Program through Hudson County Cultural Affairs; the City of Jersey City; the Exchange Place Alliance; the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner organization of the NEA; Genova Burns; the Historic Downtown Special Improvement District (HDSID); the Jersey City Economic Development Corporation; Jersey City Health and Human Services; KRE; the New Jersey Economic Development Authority Small Business Improvement Grant; Panepinto Properties; public funds from the Jersey City Arts and Culture Trust Fund; RWJ Barnabas | Jersey City Medical Center; SILVERMAN; Super Buy Rite; the New Jersey Arts and Culture Renewal Fund; Tito’s Handmade Vodka; and many other generous volunteers, donors, and sponsors.