The Power of Art
In our studio, YAC mentors and YACsters are given the space to discuss and reflect on the themes of their artwork with one another. Our mentors have built their careers upon staying vulnerable in their creative expression and recognizing the impact of their voices, producing art that uplifts entire communities.
We encourage YACsters to lean into the power of their art.
YAC Feature: Zoey, Saniya, and Lorena are using their art as a vehicle for affirming identity, building resilience, and celebrating culture
Affirming Identity
Zoey McNeil • YACster since 2023 • All the Colors of Pride
Zoey’s work explores a wide range of themes: from social justice issues and voting rights, to deeply personal experiences of anxiety and hope. Zoey created All the Colors of Pride after learning about YAC’s first Pride Pop up show during her initial tour of YAC, before she became a member. “The LGBTQ+ community is just so diverse, and since I know the warm feeling of being affirmed in my identity, and I want others to feel the same.”
Building Resilience
Saniya Majid • YACster since 2021 • The Gift
After losing her father in 2022, Saniya turned to oil painting and realism, incorporating his presence into her paintings as a way to process her grief. She describes being comfortable doing so at YAC because it is a kind and non-judgemental place. “My dad is no longer here with me today, but I still have the memories we shared and painting these memories reassures me that they’ll never be forgotten.”
Saniya shared her story with us during YAC’s fundraiser at Winfield Gallery. Check out her full speech: yacstudios.org/winfield
Celebrating Culture
Lorena Hernandez • YAC Alum 2014–2020 • I Arise
Lorena’s artwork consists of vibrant colors, portraits and feelings of love for her Mexican and Latina culture, creating artwork that both comforts and challenges her. She currently works as a student services provider for the Migrant Education Program of Colquitt County, GA, where she meets the academic and holistic needs of migratory children in middle school classrooms.
“Art is my language, and YAC taught me to be strong with love, mentorship and vulnerability. YAC taught me to be strong but to always let others’ strengths inspire me to create something greater than the sum of its parts. Oh, and to lead life with a gracious heart!”
Will you help us amplify the power of art?
Donate today to help us build a brighter, more empowered future. Make your tax-deductible donation by writing a check to “YAC” or giving online: yacstudios.org/support-us
