Today host Cricket Paulsen welcomes Chris Chaffin, President and co-Founder of Young@Art located in Manchester, CT. Young@Art is a space where young adults ages 14 through 25 can go to explore their creative vision. Theres studio space for visual arts and areas for writing. All of the materials are provided free of charge to the young artists and the staff are volunteers, many of whom serve as mentors in their field. During the week there are opportunities for work with paint, clay, murals, creative writing, poetry and much more. Dance is coming soon. Kids can feel free to express themselves at the studio with no limitations or filters. Indeed, they are encouraged to use their imagination in ways they’ve never thought possible. There are trained art professionals available to assist artists as they may need guidance to channel their newfound freedom of creativity.
Chris spoke passionately about his own journey to establish the studio. He identifies with the needs of young adults to have a creative outlet. Too often art programs are cut from schools today. The artists at the studio often come from difficult backgrounds and find solace in the opportunity to express themselves in a safe and supportive environment.
Young@Art strives to be a forum where young adults learn respect for each other and themselves, in addition to discovering how to develop skills like teamwork, goal setting, business knowledge, and community building. Exciting projects include an upcoming mural in downtown Manchester that will require collaboration of many artists. Regular events include Creative Writing workshops, Open Mic Poetry and Poetry Slams with poets from all over CT participating. Annually, they host Art in the Park, a huge outdoor art fair in Manchester. Artists may also sell their creations at the studio. See their website (www.youngatartct.org) for details on programs, volunteering or donating.
