For founder Sabastian Velilla, the story of Arching Oaks Art & Culture Center began as a personal journey, from growing up in New York in the 1980s to discovering peace, purpose, and discipline through Japanese martial arts. What started as a way to find balance became a lifelong passion to share the beauty and mindfulness of Japanese culture with others.
At Arching Oaks, visitors can immerse themselves in both the Budo arts including kyudo (archery), iaidō (swordsmanship), and karate, and fine arts such as indigo dyeing, calligraphy, weaving, origami, and Japanese language. The center’s forest bathing walks offer a serene, sensory experience that encourages mindfulness, reflection, and reconnection with nature.
Through these programs, Arching Oaks has become a refuge for those seeking balance, creativity, and well-being in a fast-paced world. With support from United Arts of Central Florida, the center has grown from serving 250 students a year to nearly 1,000 community members, expanding access to scholarships and keeping programs affordable for all.
United Arts is proud to support organizations like Arching Oaks that bring cultural diversity and wellness into our communities.
✨ When you give to United Arts, you make this possible. Your support helps centers like Arching Oaks thrive, preserving cultural traditions and creating spaces of peace, artistry, and connection for everyone.
#WeMakeArtPossible #MakeArtThrive #UnitedArtsCFL #OrlandoArts #JapaneseCulture #ArchingOaks
