The American Folk Art Museum is Accepting Applications for its Youth Art Connection

By Catherine Patwell April 1, 2016

The American Folk Art Museum is offering a new summer intensive program for creative NYC teens interested in careers in the arts.

Know a creative teen looking for a fun way to spend their summer vacation? The American Folk Art Museum has announced its new Youth Art Connection summer intensive program for high school students entering grades 11 and 12. The program will offer teens interested in the arts behind-the-scenes access to the museum’s exhibitions and collections, as well the chance to create artwork, connect with other creative peers, and learn about different career paths within the arts.

The home base for the program is the American Folk Art Museum’s Collections and Education Center in Long Island City, which houses the museum’s archives and library. “Students will have the opportunity to really delve into those resources,” says Natalie Beall, the museum’s education specialist. The Youth Art Connection has a real “dual focus” between learning what folk art is, making folk-inspired artworks, but also “quite a lot of exposure to careers in the arts.”

RELATED: Our updated guide to museums in the NYC area

Students will also spend significant time at the museum’s gallery space in Lincoln Center, where the special exhibit this summer will feature artist Ronald Lockett, who worked extensively in non-traditional and found materials. There will also be special field trips to NYC's art galleries, museums, and art organizations, especially those focusing on folk and self-taught art.

The intensive will run between July 18- Aug. 12 on Mondays and Wednesdays, from 1-4pm. Requirements for the program are that students commit to all eight biweekly sessions, and that they are able to travel independently on the subway. Participation is free, and includes all art supplies as well as a Metrocard.

The application includes 3 short essay questions discussing the applicants’ interests and future goals. For more information and to apply, please contact Ms.Beall at [email protected] or 212-595-9533, ext. 383. The deadline is Monday, May 2.