Art Start

Art Start’s Creative Connections program offers a continuum of spaces and pathways where teens and young adults can explore, learn, and grow into their own place in the creative arts industries. Join CCX //NYC// //MKE//

What is the Creative Connections Program?

Creative Connections (CCX) is a free, year-round program in New York City and Milwaukee and includes:

Monthly Creative Sessions
Industry Partnerships
Showcases/Salons
Weekly Open Hours - Sign Up Here: NYC // MKE
Emerging Artists Program - Apply Here: NYC // MKE
Project Accelerator Fund - Apply Here

Who is the program for?

Young people in Milwaukee and New York City ages 14-24 who have exhibited interest and artistic talent and are seeking access to more resources and opportunities for their self-determined future.

Where is the program located?

The program takes place primarily in the Art Start Studios in West Chelsea Arts Building in Manhattan, NY and NO Studios in Milwaukee, WI.

How do I get involved?

Interested young artists are encouraged to complete the interest form linked below and are invited to stop by our studios during weekly open hours to learn more.

JOIN NYC

JOIN MKE

Location

526 West 26th Street Suite 10B, New York, NY 10001
710 W Historic Mitchell Street, Milwaukee, WI 53204

Program Sponsors

Dr.Jart+
NYC, Department of Cultural Affairs
Milwaukee Public Schools
Kurt Geiger Kindness Foundation
Herschel Supply Co
Ichigo Foundation

Recent Program Partners

Roc Nation
Shake Shack
Dr.Jart+
Hearst
Sotheby's

Access to the arts

The Creative Connections Program provides young people from communities historically marginalized, with access to resources, courses, mentorship and relationships with industry professionals.

Mentorship & Industry knowledge

Whether through one-on-one mentorship or group facilitation, youth are provided with the opportunity to learn from and collaborate with individuals in a variety of creative fields.

Financial Independence

Participants receive hourly and weekly stipends and are also enrolled in financial literacy courses to understand how to manage their money and create financial goals.

Teamwork

Participating youth join a cohort of artists and often work on projects together that both build teamwork skills and offer networking and collaborative opportunities.

Job readiness

Youth obtain a variety of skills and experiences including paid internships that can be transferrable to palatable job opportunities.

Public Speaking & Presentation

Whether meeting with mentors or sharing their works of progress, participating youth are given a number of opportunities to speak publicly and are given the tools to refine their presentation.