Practicing portraiture drawing from a photo in one of our past teen programs. - SUBMITTED PHOTO
Medicine Hat has no shortage of activities for children and adults to participate. From sports to arts to the outdoors, ages 2 to 12 and 18 plus have a plethora of choices to engage their minds and bodies. But where does that leave those tricky 13-17 year-olds who often fly below the radar?
Youth are often burdened with an undeserved reputation for stereotypical ‘teenage’ traits. They are viewed as disengaged or withdrawn when they actually are some of the most resilient and adaptable individuals in our lives. Not only are teens navigating changing interests, relationships and bodies, but have also had to adapt to online learning, constant social media pressures and new routines due to the pandemic.
Teens are known for pushing against the grain of society, as they grow as unique individuals with their own outlooks and opinions. These youth are already well on their way to becoming well-rounded young adults. To encourage this, the Esplanade has sought to engage the youth in our community with arts and culture.
Through the arts, we can assist in cultivating their sense of confidence and resiliency that will ultimately carry them into adulthood. Our youth art classes – aptly titled “Against the Grain” – are designed to mirror the personality traits of many teens; they’re a little edgy, a little experimental, and a lot of fun. We aim to provide a creative outlet for 13-17 year-olds to safely explore their creativity and thoughts while also testing out some new techniques and mediums. The projects in this course are designed to be built up over a period of multiple classes, resulting in beautifully complex, individual and layered products.
Art is a great way for teens to explore and express their feelings and emotions, and to reduce stress and anxiety. “Against the Grain” provides a creative platform for those who like to push boundaries, bend the rules and experiment. The next edition of this youth series runs weekly from May 4-25 and is re-imagined again each season with new projects.
For more details and to register, visit our website, esplanade.ca and keep an eye on our social media for these and more upcoming classes for everyone; young and old and in between.
Dayna Walls is Education Coordinator with the Esplanade
