The Arts Fund‘s Teen Arts Mentorship enrichment program, now its 19th year, is set to launch this spring for Santa Barbara aspiring artists and writers between the ages of 13-18. The program, which begins in March and concludes in May, fosters the talent of high school artists in groups mentored by a master artist and under the guidance of local professionals. This year, the four disciplines include bronze-casting taught by Nevin Littlehale, documentary digital photography taught by Phillip Van Nostrand, contemporary painting taught by Michael Irwin and creative writing taught by Elizabeth Schwyzer.
In this program, students will have the chance to produce portfolio-quality work, develop their presentation and exhibition techniques and learn more about potential career opportunities. Additionally, students may be able to showcase their hard work at The Arts Fund Gallery or give a public performance of written work at a determined location.
In the past, the Teen Arts Mentorship program has helped hundreds of Santa Barbara teens gain practical experience, not only enhancing their college applications, but helping them secure professional references for future careers. Because of generous donations from individuals and organizations, the Teen Arts Mentorship is tuition-free. This year’s institutional sponsors include Brooks Institute, Santa Barbara City College, Santa Barbara County Arts Commission, Santa Barbara Foundation, Towbes Foundation and Wood-Claeyssens Foundation.
Applications and class descriptions are available on The Arts Fund’s website or by calling (805)965-7321 and are due Saturday, February 16.
-Colette Taylor
