Program

How does ArtsBridge work?

ArtsBridge closes the gap in public school arts education by sending qualified university arts students into schools to teach art.

ArtsBridge harnesses the resources of the local community and its universities to respond to specific classrooms needs: the expansive reach of mathematical knowledge is realized as a seventh grader is shown the connections between geometry, fractals and art-making; peace studies are taught to first graders as they created sand paintings as a way to learn about Tibetan and Native American use of this ritual for healing and celebration.

ArtsBridge scholars develop projects collaboratively with teachers that arise out of the needs and goals of each classroom. In this sense, both parties assume the role of action researcher and engage in a form of ongoing needs assessment and skills inventory with pupils and with on another. In a very real way, the ArtsBridge program enables universities and schools to negotiate solutions to local educational concerns in real time.