About Me

Hi, I’m Kai Bucholz. I’m an artist, a student, and someone who believes in the power of creativity to inspire connection and change.

My Artistic Journey

Art has been a meaningful way for me to share my story and connect with others. I’ve had the privilege of showcasing two pieces at the Museum of Northern California Art (MONCA) during the foster care museum exhibit. I’ve also participated in the Thrive exhibit at the Butte College Gallery, which highlighted individual identities and celebrated personal expression. These opportunities allowed me to explore themes of resilience and identity through my art.

This year, I’m working on a deeply personal project called What You Need. It’s a 4'x8' mosaic made up of 192 canvases, each featuring an abstract human figure. These figures will be painted by current and former foster youth in response to the question, “What do you need to be the best you?” Participants will use colors like magenta for love or green for respect to depict their emotional and physical needs.

This piece isn’t about assumptions—it’s about creating a space for foster youth to imagine and express what they deserve. Accompanied by testimonials from participants, the artwork invites viewers to connect with these stories and reflect on their own needs. To me, this project represents empowerment, empathy, and a vision of dignity for all.

My Education

Currently, I’m attending Butte College, where I’ll earn my associate degree in Studio Arts by the end of this academic year. Next year, I’ll transfer to Chico State to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Communication Design.

A Communication Design degree combines creativity with strategy, focusing on how visuals, branding, and messaging come together to communicate effectively. It opens doors to careers like graphic design, web development, user experience design, and digital marketing—fields that inspire me to connect with others in innovative ways.

In addition to my studies, I work as a student assistant at Butte College’s Inspiring Scholars Program, a foster youth advocacy program that supports students on their academic journeys.

My Foster Care Experience

Growing up in foster care was challenging, but it shaped who I am today. I carry my experiences with pride and use them to fuel my passion for advocacy. As an AmeriCorps member through Butte County’s Office of Education, I serve as a college mentor, helping foster youth navigate their transition out of care.

Through my art, education, and advocacy, I aim to create spaces where people can imagine a life with dignity, self-respect, and fulfillment.