Many Christian high school artists are looking for mentorship, belonging, and opportunities for self-expression. Some want to create in an environment that builds them in their faith as well as in their art. But there aren’t many programs teaching high school artists about how their art-making and their faith intersect in a mentoring community. So, young Christian artists are left to develop their gifts with the culture as the primary voice shaping their art-making.
The Heart Youth Arts Experience is a unique, one-week intensive experience for exceptionally-talented high school students seeking to connect their art and their Christian faith. The Heart experience will grow your artistry as well as your faith so you are able to uniquely speak into the culture.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PROGRAM:
July 8-12, 2024
OVER THE COURSE OF THE WEEK, EACH STUDENT WILL:
Be exposed to principles for integrating faith and art as a Christian creative
Have the opportunity to share their original creations with the group and receive valuable encouragement and feedback
Interact with professional Christian creatives who will talk about their approach to integrating their art and faith in their daily lives. Past mentors have included professional musicians, writers, fashion designers, painters, choreographers, songwriters, filmmakers, etc.
Be coached on how to effectively present their work as well as effectively engage with other artists over their work
Collaborate with other students over the course of the week to create and present an original project
Participate in large and small group discussions as well as 1:1 time with leaders and in private reflection.
Given the chance to build community with other student artists.
Cost for the program: $175 (Scholarships available for those in financial need)
WHO ARE GOOD CANDIDATES FOR THIS PROGRAM?
Ideal candidates for the program are high school students (rising sophomores to graduating seniors) with a serious appetite to grow as an artist and in their faith. No prior formal training is required in their specific discipline; however, students need to show evidence of natural gifting in their proposed art medium. Interested students need to complete the online application on or before March 29, 2024. Each applicant will be required to submit samples of their work along with two letters of recommendation.
WHAT ARTISTIC DISCIPLINES WILL BE CONSIDERED?
Anything in the visual, performing, or literary arts: creative writing, filmmaking, graphic design, sculpting, painting, illustration, drawing, songwriting, performing, photography, choreography… you name it! If you have questions as to your qualifications for the residency, email us at artsinfo@fpco.org.
IMPORTANT DATES FOR APPLYING:
Applications accepted February 14-March 29
Interviews will take place in person between April 10-13 at First Presbyterian Church of Orlando.
APPLICANTS WILL BE NOTIFIED OF ACCEPTANCE INTO THE PROGRAM BY APRIL 26
DATES FOR PARTICIPATION:
Kick Off & Preview Dinner for all participants - Sunday, June 30 - 6pm-8pm
Monday, July 8 - 8:30am - 5pm
Tuesday, July 9 - 8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday, July 10 - 8:30am - 9pm (Includes dinner out & special evening program)
Thursday, July 11 - 8:30am - 5pm
Friday, July 12 - 8:30am - 8pm (A presentation of original works will be held from 7:00pm-8:00pm for family and friends)
Special Note: All participants are strongly encouraged to attend Art Fellowship Orlando’s June 8th Summer Showcase at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts to catch a glimpse of what it means to integrate faith and art in unconventional ways!