Celebrating the First Anniversary of Art Classes at Youngstown!
Delridge Neighborhoods Development Association recently celebrated the first anniversary of our Watercolor Mixed-Media Art Program! The popular, free intergenerational Wednesday art classes! Since November 2023, DNDA has hosted free intergenerational art classes every Wednesday (except on holidays) at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. Led by DNDA teaching artists, these weekly classes have provided community members a third space to channel their creativity using watercolors, printmaking, acrylics, collages, and drawing, while also integrating upcycled and found materials like plants and used jars. All our classes were designed to engage folks of all ages and creative skill levels.
Woman painting purple flowers with watercolors. In the background is a rainbow art pallet beside art brushes and other artwork.
DNDA used our Centering Art and Racial Equity grant from Seattle Office of Arts and Culture to launch this series. The two-hour classes have been popular and well-attended since they first opened. Furthermore, class attendance has reflected our neighborhood’s rich cultural diversity and allowed attendees to share their traditions and history. As an all-ages class, it also encourages intergenerational collaboration and the exchange of information, insight, and unique perspectives.
Young child holding up a pot for plants they created with sticks, pipe cleaners, and twine.
These classes are intentionally free so that people across all income levels can participate regardless of financial standing, because access to the arts is crucial to a healthy community. For this reason, we adopted equitable outreach practices, including advertising our classes to the public and affordable housing communities in West Seattle, and community partners that serve underserved communities.
Three people creating art at a table with watercolors, brushes, and sketchbooks in a collaborative, creative setting.
As a result, our classes have consistently attracted participants from diverse racial, age, and income groups. Attendees frequently expressed that our program is the only free arts-based learning experience available to them. We found that our free community art classes created a welcoming space for older adults to meet neighbors, build connections, and share in a creative way. “We are delighted to hear from participants how our program has become a vital resource,” said Erin Kollar, a DNDA teaching artist who led many of the classes during 2024. “We wanted to immerse participants in learning experiences that incorporated themes of upcycling and sustainability.”
A group of people collaborating on a colorful art project, with one of the teaching artists guiding a participant painting a mushroom design on a vibrant, nature-themed piece
As we reflect on the first anniversary of our Watercolor Mixed-Media Art Program, DNDA is proud of the positive impact these free, intergenerational classes have had on our community. By fostering creativity, cultural exchange, and connections among neighbors, this program has truly embodied our mission of supporting art, equity, and sustainability. We look forward to continuing to provide accessible, enriching experiences that celebrate diversity, inspire creativity, and strengthen the vibrant fabric of our Delridge community.
A vibrant tabletop filled with watercolor palettes, brushes, and colorful artwork in progress, showcasing the creativity and expression of participants during an art session.
-Written by the DNDA Communications Team