TARGET GRANT SUPPORTS TEACHING RESIDENCY FOR YOUTH
VACR extends hearty thanks to Target for our $2,000 grant for the 2007 Artist Teaching Residency for Youth, an on-site, multiple-visit intensive workshop taught by a visiting professional artist. The residency provides opportunities for artists and youth to work together and connect through exploration and creation of art. Selected projects emphasize collaborative and interdisciplinary approaches and explore mediums/topics that are not covered by traditional art programs. The program also serves as an inspiration for students, exposing them to careers that professional artists hold within the community. We have applied for additional funds to support projects in mural painting and video documentary in 2007-08.
Our building renovation provided the perfect opportunity to host a residency program that focuses on architecture and space planning. From the award-winning design firm 3north, architects Todd Dykshorn, Jason Dufilho, Jill Nolt and Fred Garret and landscape architect Heather Barber designed a dynamic residency for a class of nine Art After School students. Our aspiring architects have been immersed in architectural imagery, process and history, and have learned about innovative building materials and techniques. A field trip to 3north’s renovated Manchester building provided inspiration for students’ own model construction projects, which explore the concepts of scale, space and light. Students completed models that include imaginative interior designs, and each student was given the opportunity to present his or her final project to a team of 3north professionals for review.
The Visual Arts Center and our Art After School program are most grateful to Target for funding this outstanding residency and to 3north for their enthusiastic instruction and guidance. The 3north staff has generously donated more than 60 hours of their time to make our spring residency program a success. Thank you!
