NorthStar Church of the Arts

Our mission is to empower marginalized artists, cultivate cross-cultural spaces for community healing, and provide a vital gathering space for creative expression and social connection in an era of diminishing third spaces and religious engagement.

NorthStar Church of the Arts is a multidisciplinary artist led 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. We harness the transformative power of art for social change, with a steadfast commitment to centering creative spiritual expression and fostering deep healing for artists of color. Housed in a historic church originally designed for the deaf community, our organization is a sanctuary for marginalized creatives. NorthStar stands as an illuminating nexus that expands its historical roots, providing holistic material support for artists and cultivating a safe haven for cross-cultural collaboration and community engagement.

In the face of rapid gentrification, we are dedicated to ensuring that Black, working-class, and LGBTQIA+ artists maintain a thriving cultural enclave in the heart of Durham. Through innovative programming and strategic partnerships, NorthStar goes beyond traditional artistic support, offering a community hub where working artists can flourish creatively while making an impact on Durham’s social landscape.

Our founder Phil Freelon believed that “art is the most powerful force in the universe,” and our mission is rooted in that mantra. By embracing our unique history and adapting to the evolving needs of Durham, NorthStar is a testament to the potential for inclusivity, equity, and social change through the unifying language of art.