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What is Studio in a School ? Studio in a School is a not-for-profit organization that provides in-depth visual arts education programs, led by professional artists, to children in New York City public schools and community centers. From our start in three schools in 1977, STUDIO has today grown to serve more than 35,000 children and 2,400 teachers at over 168 schools and community settings annually. More than 600 schools, child care centers, and community organizations have been provided with Studio in a School programs over the past 29 years. What is the goal of the program? Studio in a School ’s mission is to foster the creative and intellectual development of young people through quality visual arts programs directed by professional artists, and to collaborate with and enhance the capacity of those who provide and support arts programming for youth in pre-kindergarten to 12 th grade. We not only offer children the opportunity to explore their creativity through visual arts experiences, but also train school teachers in ways to integrate visual art into their classrooms. Why and when did STUDIO come into existence? After New York City virtually eliminated the budget for arts education in public schools in the 1970s, Agnes Gund, art collector and president emerita of The Museum of Modern Art, brought funders and educators together to found STUDIO in 1977. Which children do you serve? STUDIO serves 35,000 children and teens, from pre-K to high school, in public schools and childcare centers in all five boroughs of New York City. STUDIO is committed to reaching schools with limited access to arts programs, particularly in economically disadvantaged areas. Our programs serve schools where the poverty rates ranges from 80-90%, and where participating children reflect the ethnic diversity of the city. What kinds of programs do you offer? STUDIO's core programs include:
What is a typical art class like? Each lesson includes a demonstration of techniques and materials; introduction of new art vocabulary; time for students' own exploration and work; and discussion and reflection. This structure guarantees that every lesson is a substantial learning experience. The content of the lesson links art to the children's academic curriculum. Why does STUDIO bring professional artists into schools? Working artists are particularly suited for teaching art, not only because they have extensive knowledge of the history and culture of art and strong technical skills, but also because they are able to model an artist’s way of thinking and working. This enthusiasm is conveyed to their students who learn that art is more than skill – it is a process of explorations and discovery. Every year, hundreds of artists apply for teaching position with STUDIO: from this talented group, only the most qualified are chosen What kind of art skills do students learn? Students learn how to use line, shape, color and texture. Working with paints, pastels, papier-mâché and clay, they create cityscapes, portraits, murals and collages. They sketch their ideas, decide which materials to use, and work until they have completed the project. Children understand how an artist thinks and how to develop an idea through reflection, critical analysis and revision. What difference does STUDIO make in NYC? Before STUDIO brought artists into the schools in 1977, the city had eliminated most visual arts classes in public schools. STUDIO has been in the schools for 29 years, providing $61 million worth of services. Through STUDIO's work, art has been introduced to thousands of children, engaging them in the creative process. The partnerships among teachers, artists, parents and students have a permanent impact on the urban community. How does Studio stand apart from other arts education groups in NYC? Many arts providers offer schools one-time workshops, talks, and event, but STUDIO programs are in-depth: artists work with students for up to five years, building relationships with program administrators and teachers. Both STUDIO and its partnering sites make a commitment to provide the fund. Facilities, materials, schedules, and training that enable art-making to become a regular part of the day and an ongoing part of the curriculum. Where can the public see the artwork created by children in the program? STUDIO holds on-going displays of student work at our two gallery at One East 53rd Street and at our Westside Art Studio Gallery. We also regularly partner on exhibitions with other institutions from both the public and private sector, including Phillips de Pury, Time Warner, MetLife, The Asia Society and The American Museum of Natural History. Please visit our News, Events, & Exhibitions page for more details. Why is art important to students? Participation in the visual arts delivers multiple rewards to children. Not only does it encourage creativity and develop a child’s imagination, but educational researchers continue to document its contribution to developmental gains and intellectual and academic growth across the curriculum. Integrating art into education helps students learn language and encourages self-expression and the development of self-esteem. Through arts experiences, children can visualize history, build socialization skills, and develop multi-cultural appreciation and understanding. Engaging in art provides a time to celebrate imagination, encourage expression, and nurture perception. How does art transform a school? The decision to collaborate with STUDIO is a clear sign that teachers and administrators agree on the value of giving students regular access to art experiences, and that they are willing to invest the necessary time and space. The return on this investment is enormous; teachers and artists work together, focusing on students' development and learning. The building itself takes on a new vitality as students' colorful paintings, sculptures and masks fill classrooms and hallways, making school a welcoming, inviting place to learn. |
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