Youth Mentorship Program
YMP
The Fine Arts Society of Milton has been inspiring, nurturing, and fostering youth in the visual arts with this specialized mentorship program since 2015.
Hello Milton and Area Youth!
Are you between the ages of 13 and 17? Do you like to draw or paint or use other mediums to fulfill your passion for art?
The Fine Arts Society of Milton is offering, once again, the Youth Mentoring Program: an art mentoring initiative created for teens interested in pursuing art as a career or just as a hobby. The program brings together local professional artists with youth and provides a 4-workshop series teaching students about art and techniques, portfolio building, and one-on-one art mentoring time. This is a great and affordable opportunity to further [your] artistic skills to a higher level in a variety of unique ways. These are not the 'run-of-the-mill' art lessons! Join us and prepare to be inspired, motivated, and excited while learning new ways to create!
NOTE: REGISTRATION FOR THE 2024 WORKSHOPS IS NOW CLOSED.
Fall 2024 Workshops
Looking Around: Plein Air Illustration
October 20th: 1pm to 4pm
Experience the beauty of plein air illustration in this workshop dedicated to capturing landscapes and urban scenes firsthand. Participants will venture outdoors to observe and sketch the natural and built environments around them. Guided by mentors, they will learn techniques for quick, expressive drawing and watercolor painting to render scenes realistically or stylized. Emphasis will be placed on capturing light, atmosphere, and the essence of each location. This workshop encourages participants to connect with their surroundings through art, fostering a deeper appreciation for both natural and urban landscapes.
Collections: Assemblage From Nature
October 27th: 1pm to 4pm
The term “biophilia” may be described as an inherent connection between humanity and nature; one which may improve our physical, mental, emotional, and cognitive health. In this workshop, participants will explore the notion of “biophilia’ as they immerse themselves in natural surroundings, gathering materials that resonate with them — exploring colors, textures, and shapes found in leaves, stones, and other natural artifacts. Guided by mentors, they will learn to arrange these treasures into visually compelling compositions. The workshop will also cover techniques for photographing these arrangements, emphasizing the play of light and shadow to capture their essence. Whether creating realistic depictions or abstract interpretations, this workshop invites participants to deepen their connection with nature through artistic expression.
Unlocking Ideas: Developing Your Creative Spark
November 3rd: 1pm to 4pm
Dive into the art of creative problem-solving and idea generation in our dynamic workshop. Participants will explore techniques for sparking innovation, drawing inspiration from prompts and personal experiences. Through guided exercises and brainstorming sessions, you will learn to harness your imagination to solve challenges and explore new concepts. Emphasis will be placed on cultivating a supportive environment where diverse perspectives and ideas flourish. This workshop is designed for anyone looking to enhance their creative thinking skills, whether for projects or personal growth. Join us to ignite your creativity and unleash your potential through structured yet playful exploration.
Reflections: Exploring the Self Portrait
November 10th: 1pm to 4pm
Join us for a workshop dedicated to the meditative practice of creating self-portraits. Participants will be guided through techniques that encourage slowing down and introspection, using pencil, pen, or paint to capture their unique essence on paper or canvas. Through mindful observation of facial features, expression, and the play of light, participants will learn to create portraits that reflect both outer appearance and inner contemplation. This workshop emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of art, fostering self-awareness and creativity in a supportive environment. Whether you're a novice or experienced artist, this session invites you to explore the profound connection between art-making and self-discovery.
REGISTRATION
NOTE: REGISTRATION FOR THE 2024 WORKSHOPS IS NOW CLOSED.
The Youth Mentorship Program is open to 35 young adults. Students are not required to have previous experience or training, simply a passion to explore the arts, a desire to learn new techniques, and a wish to participate in creating art. As space is limited, applications are processed on a first-come-first-served basis, and if we exceed the number of seats available, names will be placed on a waiting list.
The Workshops will take place in conjunction with the Milton Community Resource Centre on 4 consecutive Sundays in the fall, followed by a special Exhibition of the youth artwork, which includes a reception for family and friends.
There is a fee of $20.00 per workshop, and most materials will be supplied. You can take 1, 2, 3, or all 4 workshops to suit your interests.
PARTICIPANT AGREEMENT
Reminder to all Registrants:
1) Download and print the Participant Agreement PDF
2) Complete, sign, and have your parents sign and date the form.
3) Bring this completed form with you to the first workshop you attend. It will be kept on file for all subsequent workshops in the program.
*Note: Please send an email to Ursula McDermid (umcdermid@gmail.com) with any questions, or if an alternative method of payment is required.