Youth
ArtsWork
The ArtsWork program, launched in 2001 provides opportunities for youth to apprentice under professional artists in a work environment. ArtsWork has employed over 600 young people and reached thousands of community members through the arts. ArtsWork works in various arts disciplines, including writing, music, dance, photography, theater, mosaics, pottery, jewelry and painting.
By pairing mentoring artists with apprentices, aged 14 to 21, the youth develop both workplace and artistic skills. Groups of youth learn art forms from professional artists and create original art for sale, hold performances or exhibitions, and produce public works of art. Apprentices also develop vital job abilities with an emphasis on 21st century skills, such as teamwork, communications, critical thinking, conflict resolution, self-direction and goal setting.
ArtsWork projects take place each summer in the visual, literary or performing arts. Youth applicants go through a competitive interview process in order to be hired. Up to twelve apprentices work under each artist for five to eight weeks.
The goals of ArtsWork are to:
- Teach skills that will help young people succeed in the 21st century
- Offer meaningful employment
- Involve youth in a mentoring relationship with an adult
- Provide a professional arts experience with high quality outcomes
- Engage youth in working alongside peers from other neighborhoods and communities
ArtsWork Program Page -- have more questions? Contact Betsy Mowry
The Canvas
Committed to youth leadership, engaging arts programs and community-building, the Canvas offers FREE workshops, open mic nights, materials and support for young writers, dancers, visual artists, performers and artists of all kinds. The Canvas is located at Hancock Recreation Center, 1610 Hubbard Avenue W, Saint Paul, MN 55104 (on Snelling Avenue right across from Hamline University).
Learn more:
Have more questions? Call the Canvas at (651) 298-4393 or contact Betsy Mowry.
Community and Recreation Centers
The Canvas is an example of our arts programs happening in recreation centers.
Anywhere people gather, a COMPAS artist is ready to go to work. By drawing on the wide and varied expertise of our Roster Artists, we believe we can tailor-make a successful plan for just about any situation. Check out our Artist Roster. Ask us about our program options - Residencies, Performances, Workshops or Exhibits. Let's see what we can come up with, together.
