Ventana was founded by several individuals who had been with one of two delegations of cultural workers to tour Nicaragua in June and July 1983. The official structure and name was given in early 1984 with the participation of other more recently returned delegates (in particular, a delegation of theatre workers, Dec. 1983).

"We are North American artists and cultural workers who oppose United States intervention and destabilization efforts in Nicaragua, in Central America and the Caribbean. We support the people of the Americas in their right to self-determination and the right to govern in the interests of the majority of the people. Having witnessed the disastrous effects of U.S. foreign policy on the people of Nicaragua, we seek to change this policy through the use of our cultural skills and activities."

Activities since its founding include sending additional delegations, hosted by the Sandinista Cultural Workers Association (ASTC), hosting in NY well-known painters and performers from Nicaragua, collecting cultural supplies as material aid to Nicaraguan arts organizations, and participating in solidarity and anti-war networks and coalitions. Using their firsthand accounts, individual members have written articles, plays, novels, films, reports and editorial letters. (The most outstanding accomplishment in this respect is Ventana delegate Reed Brody's front-page report on contra atrocities). Others have incorporated their experiences into theatre and musical performances, sculpture, photography, and paintings. Many have shown slides to friends, colleagues, school programs, etc.