What We’re All About
Adventure Artists International exists for artists who believe creativity can be a force for good.
We bring together art, travel, conservation, and humanitarianism to help artists create meaningful work while contributing positively to the places, people, and ecosystems they encounter.
Our focus isn’t just on where you go — but on how you engage, what you create, and the impact your work can have beyond the journey itself.
Creative work grounded in real relationships.
Our Roots
Adventure Artists International grew from a long-standing friendship and shared values. Co-founders Susan Richey and April Howland met more than twenty years ago in Phoenix, Arizona, where both were deeply involved in animal rescue and community-focused creative work.
Though their artistic paths developed in different directions — photography and fine art — both were drawn to using their work to support causes larger than themselves. Separate journeys to Africa became a turning point, revealing not only extraordinary wildlife, but vibrant communities, deep cultural traditions, and a powerful sense of welcome.
It was the people — not just the landscapes — that made it clear this was work worth returning for.
From Travel to Impact
What began as a shared love of travel evolved into a deeper purpose: returning to the same places to build relationships, support community-led initiatives, and use art as a tool for awareness and fundraising.
Early collaborations included creative fundraisers supporting school infrastructure projects in Africa, where art played a direct role in helping communities build kitchens and provide meals for students. These experiences shaped the foundation of Adventure Artists International — not as a tour company, but as a creative collective rooted in responsibility, respect, and long-term impact.
What Makes This Different
Artist-led experiences rooted in real-world creative practice
Conservation and humanitarian impact woven into every journey
Preparation before travel and support after returning home
Small, intentional groups built around trust and shared values
Empowering artists to raise awareness through their work — not just document experiences
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![Group of people standing outside in front of a small building with a red roof, some dressed in traditional African clothing and others in casual Western attire, under a cloudy sky, surrounded by trees.]()
Women's Craft Market in Kenya
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![A smiling young girl in an orange dress standing with her arms crossed in front of a rustic wooden building, with cows grazing on green grass nearby.]()
IlTolish School in Kenya
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![Four people on an open-air safari vehicle, observing wildlife through binoculars and cameras, in a natural outdoor setting.]()
Getting Creative Ideas On Safari
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![Two people working together to cut dried grass with a wooden tool on the ground, wearing traditional beaded jewelry and casual clothing.]()
Learning local traditions and skills
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![A woman wearing a wide-brimmed hat and green sleeveless top taking a selfie with a group of school children outdoors. The children are smiling and wearing school uniforms.]()
Creativity, connection, and community
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![A woman with a backpack taking a photograph of a horse in a forested area with tall grass and green trees.]()
Learning Photography in the field
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![A woman with red hair and glasses painting a bee on a flower on a canvas.]()
Painting Nature Scenes
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![A painting of a woman with dark skin wearing a colorful headscarf and a denim jacket, holding a young child with dark skin, who is wearing a bright orange knit hat and a denim jacket with a fluffy collar, both looking off to the side against a brown background.]()
Portrait Painting By April
Guided by Artists
Adventure Artists International is guided by practicing artists whose individual creative businesses inform everything we do — from how trips are designed to how artists are supported before and after each experience.
To learn more about the hosts behind Adventure Artists International and their creative work, visit our Hosts page.
You're Welcome Here
Whether you're an established artist, a curious creative, or someone exploring how your work can make a difference, there's a place for you here.