Youth

Groundswell is a place to unlock your potential and imagination.

 

As a Groundswell youth artist, you have the opportunity to develop art skills from trained art educators. Our educators will teach you about the art-making process as you explore your personal voice as an emerging artist. You will make new friends, build community with like-minded people, and develop a support system that will help you achieve your goals.

 

Together, we will make art with a message. Our programs explore social justice issues that are important to New York City youth. Through the process you will become an agent of change at home, at school, and in your communities. You can be like youth artist Jelani Felix, who said about his experience: “Through my time with Groundswell, I learned more about the issues me and my community are facing. I am more aware of my surroundings. And as I learned, I got to grow and paint and have fun and express myself.” 

 

Hear more about what it's like to be in Groundswell programs by exploring profiles of current and former youth. 

 

Groundswell has many opportunities to become involved that open up several times a year. Through our art programs, Groundswell offers nurturing a community of love, support, and accountability in order for young people to be the best they can be. We create experiences for young people to find themselves because we believe young people from historically marginalized communities have the brilliance to change the world.

 

Are you ready to change the world?

 

You don’t have to be an artist to join our community. You just have to be open to exploring your talents within a trusting and safe community, and you have to be interested in art, community, and social change. Be sure to check our application page for our programming opportunities from mural making to community organizing.