Stage 1 Design is a family-owned business built on the strength of four families from the surrounding community. Founded on the belief that strong families create strong communities, we are committed to giving back through services and experiences that bring families, friends, and neighbors closer together.
Our mission is to create a safe, welcoming, and comfortable space where creativity is encouraged, relationships are nurtured, and people of all ages feel valued and supported.
The founders of Stage 1 Design are proud graduates of Longstrength, Turner, Tilden, Bartram Motivational Center, William Penn, and CHAD. Our roots in the community inspire us to build meaningful partnerships, create opportunities, and demonstrate the power of working together toward a common goal.
At Stage 1 Design, we believe that it takes a village to build a brighter future. We strive to be a safe haven where young and old can connect, express themselves, grow, and thrive together.
Stage 1 Design is more than a business — we are a family, a community, and a foundation for a stronger future.
Meet Our Leadership Team
Antonio Black
CEO & Founder
I am an Industrial Designer with over 19 years of experience in product, toy, and soft goods design. After years of bringing creative ideas to life, I felt inspired to return to where my love for art first began—Philadelphia.
As a former student of Tilden Middle School, William Penn, and CHAD, I am proud to reconnect with the community that helped shape my creative journey.
Through Stage 1 Design, my vision is to give back by creating a welcoming space where young artists can explore their creativity, develop confidence, and discover new opportunities through art.
I am excited to share my passion, experience, and creativity with the next generation of artists in Philadelphia and the surrounding communities.
Cheree Cook-Black
Co-Owner & COO
As Co-Owner and Chief Operating Officer of Stage 1 Design, bringing this studio to life is especially meaningful to me. The very space where our studio stands is part of the neighborhood where I grew up, celebrated with family and friends, and met my now-husband and fellow founder.
Through collaboration, leadership, and a commitment to operational excellence, I focus on building a strong foundation that allows our team, programs, and creative experiences to thrive. My hope is that Stage 1 Design becomes a place where everyone feels encouraged to discover their talents, express themselves, and perhaps one day bring our very own creative production to life.
Dayshia Velaquez
Art Director
As a visual artist with a background in floral design, education, and creative programming, I bring a passion for helping people of all ages explore their creativity. My experience spans painting, floral artistry, and working with children and adults to develop engaging, hands-on learning experiences that inspire curiosity, imagination, confidence, and self-expression.
I believe art should be accessible, welcoming, and meaningful. Through teaching and creative programming, my goal is to foster connections, encourage artistic exploration, and create opportunities for individuals to discover their abilities and experience the joy of making something uniquely their own.
Deborah Footman
Director of Operations
With over 45 years of experience in operations and customer service management within retail, I’ve dedicated the last eight years to the operations side of a prominent retail company. Now, as I embark on a new chapter in my life with retirement, I’m thrilled to bring my extensive experience and skills to the Stage 1 Design art community.
I’m committed to bringing the same enthusiasm, problem-solving abilities, and caring attitude to everyone who visits. I eagerly anticipate serving you as we embark on this exciting journey together.
Let’s
All
work together
- Schools & Youth Organizations
- Community Organizations
- Local Businesses
- Sponsors & Supporters
Awesome
Ways we can partner
- Workshops & Enrichment
- Community Events
- Family Experiences
- Sponsorships
- Collaborative Programs
- Special Projects
Why partner with
Stage 1?
- Community-Focused
- Youth-Centered
- Flexible & Collaborative
Let’s build
something
together
Have an idea for partnership?
Whether you’re interested in programming, events, sponsorship, outreach, or something entirely new, we’d love to explore what’s possible together.