Artwork: Untitled by Rubi, age 13 Dear Free Arts Family, Regardless of the results, this election could potentially prove to be one of the most volatile times in recent history. Made visible by social media and network media, we will be barraged with election results coverage. News of possible protests, violence, and divisiveness will penetrate our...
In late September 2020, Free Arts embarked on an ambitious project to simultaneously create five art murals in the Valley at various locations, with five different teaching artists, and five alumni apprentices. The purpose of the project was to highlight the creativity and resilience of communities during an especially difficult time in history. To make...
Rich had been a Free Arts participant and alumni for two years. They are a gifted writer and will be attending college at Arizona State University this fall to pursue a degree in creative writing. They are a 2020 Nina Mason Pullium Legacy Scholar. Where Did the Time Go?? This poem was created at the...
In 2013, Free Arts started an Alumni program which has grown to include over 25 active alumni. In the Alumni program teens and young adults who have participated in previous Free Arts programs, build skills and community by engaging in art activities, leadership training, and apprenticeships. Most Free Arts Alumni have transitioned out of congregate...
In 1993, a young art therapist was introduced to a program in California that provided opportunities for vulnerable children to experience the healing effects of art making and caring volunteer mentors. She immediately saw the value of this program and the intense need for it in her own community, the greater Phoenix area. So began...
Beth is a former Free Arts intern and recent ASU graduate who wants to make a difference using the arts. She found Free Arts through Arizona State University and began her time with us as the Programs Intern. She started volunteering with Free Arts Days and the Weekly Mentor Program. After falling in love with...
It is going to take more than just the 16 staff members at Free Arts to keep children connected and creating. In a time when many of us are wondering “how can we help?” we invite you to support these children in the following ways. Support via the Foster Care Tax Credit – This is the easiest, no-cost...
A COVID-19 Update Even during this difficult time, Free Arts is transforming children’s trauma to resilience through the arts. Though most of our regular program are on pause, we have created new innovative options for children who have experienced trauma, their caregivers, and the community. Art Heals Videos: A video series which is available to the children...
It has been seven months since the first sledgehammer hit the building to begin our renovation. If you have driven by in that time you have seen the incredible transformation of the exterior of our space, and we hope you have the opportunity to see how wonderful the interior is as well. After relocating for...
Each fall for the past 18 years, Free Arts has partnered with Dance Theater West (DTW) to recreate DTW’s Storybook Ballet production featuring Free Arts children. Our beloved partnership continued last September, when more than 20 Free Arts children performed alongside DTW dancers at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. Director Susie Silverman and...
