Anisa Raoof

Anisa Raoof is the Arts and Health Program Director and Grants Program Manager at the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts and co-lead of the Rhode Island Arts and Health Network. She oversees programming, builds partnerships, and hosts convenings to highlight and support the significant role the arts play in individual and community health and well-being. With a passion for design, film, and finding innovative ways to connect with the community, Anisa has partnered with numerous individuals and organizations to build and support programming for all ages. Her work includes serving as Executive Director of the Providence Children’s Film Festival, founding and publishing the family website Kidoinfo (2007–2017), and as a contributing member of The Media Education Lab. She holds a degree in Psychology with a minor in Painting from the University of Rochester and is fascinated by how we see and interact with the world. After college, she was part of a research team focused on child resilience and adaptability, before launching her own design company, which created jewelry and metal home accessories, and co-founding the Providence Craft Show. A Buffalo, NY native, Anisa moved to Providence with her husband, drawn by its cool studio spaces and creative community. In her free time, she enjoys making things, reading, attending in-person art events, and watching movies in theaters. Her latest creative inspiration and challenge is learning to play electric guitar, writing music, and performing with her band, The Persisters.