Building Professional Confidence: A Visual Artist’s Journey
Slonina ArtSpace's gallery-based, visual-art-learning experience gave high school students access to art classes beyond the classroom, in an environment where professional artists were critiquing, encouraging, and strengthening technique in tandem with building community bonds within the inclusive Downtown Las Vegas arts community. Young fine artists can experience challenges during the transition from robust scholastic life into professional artistic life. This project exposed young artists to the broader framework of artistic culture and professional acumen. Through a series of classes held in a gallery setting, and taught by working professional artists, young artists sharpened their visual voice. Complementary artist socials and a final gallery show strengthened ties to a broader population of creatives in Las Vegas, through shared conversation about artistic interests, professional opportunities at large, and the Portrait Project x Slonina ARTSpace final gallery show presented by students.
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The workshop series allowed students to enhance their artistic voice alongside professionals in a new environment. Unique artistic expression was fostered, thoughtful critiques were shared, and creative uncertainty was challenged head-on, leading to greater self-awareness. Learners walked away with a better understanding of themselves in the context of the broader Las Vegas community, and realized that their authentic impact is crucial to the continuity of culture, creative progress, and vision in Nevada.
What is the connection between this outreach project and the principles of the portrait?
Learners explored diverse tools to amplify their inner voice
Families discovered a “new home” for locals at the independent gallery that holds regular community events
Educators found the creative work decreased stress as the push toward finals approached
The new relationships with schools will continue to generate more opportunities for art classes
"The project helped in exposing the abilities and skills of my students which could possibly lead to future invites to participate."
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- EDUCATOR