A basic painting class changed Umayal Annamalai's life a few years ago. Through that class, Umayal decided to go all in and become a full time artist. Since then she's expanded her reach, hosting creative art workshops across Charlotte thanks to a Creative Growth Grant from the City of Charlotte. Learn more about Umayal, her Roots to Rise workshops and how they are providing a safe, healing space for the community in the video above. In celebration of AAPI month, support Umayal by visiting umayal.art and signing up for one of her workshops.