programs
Creative
Collectives
Since 1991, we’ve held arts workshops with young people coping with challenging circumstances such as homelessness and the juvenile justice system.
What is the program?
Through long-term partnerships with numerous city and nonprofit social service agencies, Art Start’s Creative Collectives take place inside of transitional housing residences (shelters) for families experiencing homelessness, at schools, and at residential detention facilities and alternative sentencing programs for court-involved youth.
Programs are conducted year round, up to five days a week with youth and families, bringing a unique formula of arts programming that’s student-centered, fluid and adaptive, yet focused and consistent.
Benefits
Creative Collectives allow youth the opportunity to grow and develop self-awareness through self-expression, which has been proven to reduce stress and accelerate psychological and physical healing.
Workshops are led by Art Start staff and a team of committed volunteer mentors who focus on building trusting relationships with youth. Art Start believes that each individual has an autonomous and creative spirit which is inherently healing and liberating. We strive to create a safe and creative space where youth voices are centered and have the opportunity for public exchange of their ideas and voices.
Art Start creates a studio space on-site at these locations and offers year-round programming
With an emphasis on frequency and consistency, workshops focus on visual arts, music, dance, theater, performance showcases and cultural field trips.
- Bronx
- Queens
- Brooklyn
- Manhattan
Program Benefits
Arts engagement
Creative Collectives provide youth from under-resourced communities with access to arts instruction, resources and mentorship.
Stress Reduction
Our workshops provide vital opportunities for youth to heal, thrive, and grow through the adverse conditions of their present circumstances
Youth leadership
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Self expression
Art Start encourages participants to take positive risks with their artwork among supportive adults and peers as they build confidence, self-esteem, and resilience to unpredictability and turmoil.
Community building
we bring groups of youth together in order to decrease alienation, fight social stigma, build a sense of community, and foster greater human connection.
Continued support
The Creative Collectives program also serves as an entry point for participants to access more of Art Start’s advanced programs that include educational and career opportunities.