History of The Artist Archive and Its Evolution into The Radius Project
The Artist Archive (TAA) was founded in 2002 by filmmaker Robert DiMaio following a commission from the New York City School Construction Authority to document a public art installation in a New York City school.
Building on that initial project, DiMaio developed a broader vision: to document, through short films, the full range of artwork installed throughout public schools. His concept reimagined how students would engage with their environment. On the first day of each school year, students would be guided through hallways displaying public art, transforming everyday spaces into immersive learning experiences.
Each encounter with a work of art would be paired with a short film exploring the meaning of the piece and the life of the artist behind it. This approach extended beyond art appreciation, emphasizing the role of imagination, creativity, and inspiration in shaping both individual lives and the surrounding community.
Over time, the initiative expanded to highlight the hyperlocal ecosystem around schools. The films began to incorporate stories of environmentalists, volunteers, and community visionaries, illustrating how creative thinking can address challenges and lead to meaningful outcomes. Students were encouraged to see themselves as part of this continuum of innovation and civic engagement.
The project also envisioned deeper institutional integration. Local libraries and school libraries would serve as permanent archives, preserving not only the featured works and artists but also student-generated collections. Historians and educators would contribute context by examining the lives and legacies of past visionaries, enriching the educational framework.
Since its founding, The Artist Archive has produced 163 short films covering a diverse array of visual artists, environmental advocates, and community contributors. The organization established a notable partnership with Juilliard School, commissioning original music for each film to enhance their emotional and educational impact.
As of June 2025, the platform Vimeo reported that 10,217 viewers had engaged with TAA films online, reflecting growing public interest and digital reach.
Evolution into The Radius Project
Out of this foundation, The Radius Project emerged as a natural evolution of The Artist Archive’s mission. While TAA focused on documenting art and storytelling within schools, The Radius Project expands that vision outward—connecting schools, neighborhoods, and communities through a shared network of creativity and learning.
The Radius Project builds on TAA’s core principles:
Art as a gateway to education
Storytelling as a tool for engagement
Community as a living classroom
By widening the “radius” of influence, the initiative seeks to integrate students more deeply into their local cultural, environmental, and civic landscapes, fostering a sense of belonging, curiosity, and creative agency.