Miami's up-and-coming artists are getting a leg up in the world of art courtesy of a unique mentoring program. For the first time since the pandemic started, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Florida is bringing back its Artify Art Mentoring Program. Looking to bridge the gap between potential and opportunity, the program connects students from Paul L. Dunbar K-8 Center with art mentors from the New World School of the Arts, Visual Arts Program, as reported by the U.S. Attorney's Office.
The initiative, which kicked off in 2016, aims to give students more creative outlets and a chance at exploring new career paths. "It’s a way for a seasoned college art student to provide knowledge on different art subjects to young students who may not get that exposure otherwise," Law Enforcement Coordination Specialist Michael L. Martinez told the U.S. Attorney’s Office. With careers ranging from fine artists to interior designers, the mentors offer a real-world glimpse into the art industry.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, this year's batch of mentors includes a sculptor who also has a background in drawing and painting, illustrating the program's dedication to a diverse arts education. Mark McKinney, a specialist with the office, emphasized the broader impact of the initiative: "We are always trying to find new ways to impact the lives of our youth and communities in the best way possible. Art is a way for students to express themselves, and the feelings they have in that moment, plus learn life skills that may benefit them down the road." The mentoring sessions, which occur twice per month, allow for rich one-on-one interactions between the mentor and the middle schoolers.
Community Outreach Specialist Robin McCowen stressed the program's benefits, including boosted self-esteem and problem-solving skills. "Artify promotes self-esteem, fosters creativity, builds positive relationships, and teaches life skills like problem solving, persistence, and collaboration," McCowen said. Not only do the students gain from this experience but the mentors do as well. Martinez observed the mentors' excitement, noting, "Their enthusiasm comes through when teaching the kids. You can see it when they have that lightbulb moment and learn a new skill. It’s special for the mentors," as stated by the U.S. Attorney's Office.
A recent visit by a New World School of the Arts mentor had the Dunbar 8th graders working with cyanotype paper to produce unique artwork using sun exposure and water – a technique that results in an x-ray-like effect. Such projects reflect the hands-on and innovative approach of the Artify Art Mentoring Program, a collaborative effort that underscores the indispensable role of arts in education and community building.
