Zorah Fung paints artwork for Macy's windows as part of a Coyote Central youth arts project. Photo: © Jerry Satterlee.
Arts education helps kids become creative critical thinkers. Youth Arts is an annual funding program that makes a difference in the lives of Seattle middle and high school youth by providing arts education beyond the regular school day.
Funds and technical assistance from this program help experienced teaching artists lead training programs and projects in all arts disciplines—from visual arts to theater to dance and film. These programs give young people a chance to shine, to express themselves and to develop positive goals for the future. Youth Arts prioritizes youth or communities with limited or no access to the arts. Funding awards range up to $10,000.
The Youth Arts program awarded $201,000 to 25 artists, cultural organizations and community-based organizations serving youth in 2008. It's estimated the projects will engage 168 teaching artists who will offer more than 15,000 hours of training to 4,357 youth in neighborhoods throughout the city.