Bad Dog Arts is an artist run non-profit arts organization located in downtown Salt Lake City.Bad Dog Arts provides programs for youth in our community ages 5 to18, by creating a safe space to engage in confidence-building and highly creative activities in the studio, in the classroom, and out in the community. At Bad Dog we believe art reflects what is possible and that art can inspire and challenge young people to discover their potential and strive for excellence in all facets of their lives.

Directors Michael Moonbird and Victoria Lyons first created Bad Dog Arts in 1997, by imagining an incredible place for youth of all ages to experience their fullest potential. The character “Bad Dog” is a childlike image from Moonbird’s personal art that represents marginalized segments of society. “Bad Dog” is shown in a variety of settings, exploring the country and making it his own.Children and teens relate to “Bad Dog” because, like him, they are often negatively labeled as they struggle to understand themselves and the adult world. Our program provides guidance and support to young people as they “Rediscover America and the World” by using their own creative wisdom to navigate their ever-changing environments.

Over the years Bad Dog Arts has facilitated art projects across the Wasatch Front working with schools, nonprofits, and community organizations. 

We are able to teach sequential lesson plans that link to core subjects and foster creativity at each grade level. Our artists inspire the creation of group projects that promote planning, communication skills and teamwork.  For more information please visit our website or call us.