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The Salmon River Fine Arts Center is grateful to the Richard S. Shineman Foundation for providing a grant of $17,000 in support of a new youth art program.
The program, called “Young Artist Experience” will offer weekly classes for youth 5 -15 primarily on Saturday mornings. Some classes may also be offered during the week for homeschoolers or as an after school activity. “Giving youth the opportunity to experience art is important to the development and well being of both the child and the community,” says Board President Ann Buchau.
“Having a safe space to be able to nurture the creative spirit is key,” says Buchau. Although COVID-19 has been especially challenging to the arts and entertainment industry, the Salmon River Fine Art Center has remained positive and determined to continue to find safe ways to provide classes and offer local art exhibits for the community. “These are stressful times, and people need art in their lives to de-stress and cope,” says Buchau.
Funding will allow the center to turn under-utilized space into two functioning studios. The basement pottery studio will be outfitted with a new electric kiln, pottery wheels, tools and equipment for mid-fire ceramics and sculpture. A backroom storage area will be refurbished and turned into a painting and drawing studio.
The center is currently open by appointment only, but anticipates starting the new youth program this October. Students will be exposed to a variety of diverse artists and themes that celebrate the differences in others. Lessons will incorporate an element of mindfulness as well as develop skills and techniques, as a means to find their authentic selves through the creation of art. The goal is to create a positive learning environment for personal growth where everyone feels included, valued, and encouraged for his or her ideas.
Due to space limitations, and the state’s COVID-19 guidelines, classes will be limited to five students per studio and advance reservations will be required with a small fee of $5 to reserve space and discourage "no shows." Fees may be waived or adjusted for those with financial hardships or families with multiple children. If at any time COVID guidelines change and the center is unable to physically meet in the facility, classes will transition to virtual instruction and students will be provided supplies needed for that period.
The Salmon River Fine Arts Center is a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization, located in Pulaski, NY offering volunteer driven community art programs, hands-on workshops, and art shows that help educate and enrich our community. For more information please visit salmonriverfineartscenter.com or the art center’s Facebook page at facebook.com/SalmonRiverFineArtsCenter/.
