Launched in 1987 through an off-hand suggestion of a retired art teacher, Art All-State brings together some of the most talented juniors from across the state for an intensive two-day art experience. The students, competitively selected, collaborate with artist/mentors to create group installations inspired by the Museum's collections. Through gallery and studio experiences AAS challenges and inspires these participants to think creatively about themselves and the role that art can play in life after high school. Eight studio groups are each lead by two professional artists, who help facilitate the students in the creative process. The artists, who come from a variety of different art disciplines, also act as mentors for the student participants.
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| Images from previous AAS studios |
Mission
Boost student self image through recognition and encouragement.
Bring together students and professional artists from diverse disciplines to work in a studio setting.
Allow students to work in collaboration with these artists and their peers from other schools in the Commonwealth.
Introduce students to the Museum as a resource for the practicing artist.
Provide a forum for parental inquiry and discussion regarding their children's future in art.
Increase communication among secondary art teachers by providing opportunities for them to serve together on panels and review committees, and to act as program facilitators.
If you would like to find out more about the Worcester Art Museum's Art All-State program, or have any questions, please call 508.799.4406, x3072, or email artallstate@worcesterart.org.
Students who are nominated by their art teachers are then sent to an interview process where they meet with a panel of three artists, art educators or other volunteers who look at the student's work and then ask them a series of questions to determine good candidates for the program.
For the most part-- and I've worked this end of it too as a member of a panel-- we're looking not so much for amazing artistic talent (although that will impress the group) but enthusiasm in learning experiences, in students who display an attitude that working in larger groups would benefit them and who we think would be a good fit.
I've seen students turned down because they've got too much experience-- a kid studying in Rome for a summer of intensive art studies might be at a disadvantage over a kid who's never been out of their home-town.
There is serious effort to find good candidates.
TOMORROW: The process from an artists perspective.
