Youth Arts Collective

Program

About Our Program

Visit Us

YAC provides supplies, studio space, art training, exhibition and commission opportunities, individual mentoring, and a community unlike any other. We’re open 4 hours a day, 6 days a week, year round.

YAC is open to the public
Weekdays: 3:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.
Saturdays: 12:00 noon–4:00 p.m.

Do Art

YAC provides

  • long term, comprehensive, compassionate mentoring
    by professional artists

  • painting, drawing, ceramics, airbrush, digital
    arts, photography, video, mixed media, printmaking

  • art supplies/reference library

  • portfolio development/college prep

  • promotional skills development

  • life skills mentoring

  • gallery space and art shows year round

  • commission opportunities

  • a safe place with built in emotional support

  • visiting artists and workshops

  • community service opportunities

  • food (‘no starving artists’)

Be Kind

YAC is as much about community as it is about art. YACsters come from all walks of life and learn from each other, often forming long lasting friendships. They also become grateful to the greater community, feel valued by their support, and learn to give back.

It Works

We’ve helped over a thousand YACsters finish high school, get into college, and on to the career path of their choice.

  • 100% graduate from high school

  • 95% receive college acceptances

  • regular acceptance to summer intensive programs at top art colleges

  • part time jobs in the community

  • art commissions

  • internships and apprenticeships

  • scholarships from the community

  • art sales

  • a guaranteed rise in self esteem

How to Apply

Requirements

If you want to join the Collective you must:

  • be in high school or college and 14–22 yrs old

  • do art a lot on your own time, beyond art class

  • commit to a minimum of 2 afternoons/week for 3–4hrs each time (8 hours/week)

  • want to become an active part of a creative community

Steps to Apply

  1. Visit the studios to get a feel for it

  2. Pick up an application

  3. Interviews are on Tuesdays by appointment. Bring a completed application with several examples of your art, two recommendations (from both a teacher and a member of the community). This is not a portfolio review. We just want to see you are motivated to do your own self-generated work. There are no assignments here. Bring current artwork, sketchbook, photos, digital images, and your enthusiasm.

  4. You will hear back from us in a week. Space is limited. Sometimes there is a waiting list for newly accepted YACsters. Or sometimes if an applicant isn't ready for our Program, we invite them to reapply when they are. Otherwise, this is the best place in town to be if you are a young artist, serious about your art, and looking for a creative community and mentorship.

  5. Parents of high schoolers are asked to come to the interview.

  6. Dues are $50 per month. (Sliding scale and scholarship awards considered on individual basis)

“YAC does so much more than make good art; it makes good people.”

— Elisabeth Donley, YACalum

“YAC has inspired me to believe that leading a life and/or career in mindful creativity is not only a viable way to lead your life, but ultimately the most rewarding.”

— Brandon Saisho, YACalum