Founder

Charlecia Joy is an artist, art educator, and the Founder/CEO of Stapledon Arts, an inclusive art supply company transforming creativity by addressing the representation gap for artists of color. Beyond its social impact, for Joy, Stapledon Arts also embodies her Caribbean-American upbringing, her journey as a devoted student artist, and her pioneering role as an agent of artistic empowerment.

Joy's own artistic journey was inspired by the vibrant tapestry of Junkanoo in Nassau, Bahamas, shaping her lifelong dedication to creative excellence. With academic achievements culminating in a BFA from the University of Florida and an MA from Columbia University, Teachers College, Joy is deeply committed to shaping young minds through art education. Amidst her academic pursuits Joy also exhibited in several galleries and art spaces, planned beautification projects and murals throughout urban communities, and most recently taught high school visual arts within the NYC DOE.

With a patience to teach and curiosity to meet people in their truth Joy bridges the gap between people’s creative inhibitors and their authentic expression. Through Stapledon Arts, Joy has created more than just a business; she’s built a platform for artistic exploration – it is a testament to the enduring power of creativity in authentically fostering inclusive communities.