Garrison Art Center’s

Mentor Program 2008

an independent study in the arts

Dear Teachers, Parents and Students,

Garrison Art Center’s Mentor Program is ready to launch into another year of creative collaborations. This unique paring of young talent and experienced know-how has produced some exhilarating results and we hope that those of you who choose to participate will also find this to be true.

This letter includes an application and project overview that will explain most everything needed to initiate the process. The next important step is to identify students who would be able to incorporate this program into their schedules and benefit from working with a professional artist. My immediate concern is that the applications get in on time (due date is Nov. 16^th 2007) in order for me to make contacts with the Mentors and students by early December. We also need to make sure that students and parents are aware of the (mandatory) “Meet and Greet” session that will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 18^th 2007 at GAC from 6-8 pm. Last year the meeting was very productive and helpful for creating a sense of purpose and unity about the program. This is an important step for the Mentors as well because it validates their volunteer efforts and good intentions. It also gives students, parents and Mentors a forum to ask questions or share past experiences to build a consensus of understanding and enthusiasm.

The Mentor Program has grown over the last few years and increased in stature. Each year I try to expand the program and fulfill our mission to give young artists a critical opportunity that will further their expertise and interest in the arts. I ask that you choose serious art students who will benefit from working with a professional artist and who can realistically commit to finishing their project. Our intention is to utilize the Mentors’ talents to build on students’ existing skills rather than develop new ones. Therefore we suggest students be encouraged to create a project based on something they already know and want to take to the next level.

The Education Committee at GAC has hosted a very special spring semester Portfolio Review Day for the last four years. For many of the students who participate in the Mentor Program this event will complement and bolster their efforts. This is an open event to all high school age at ant stage of artistic interest. Last year we had representatives from SUNY New Paltz, School of Visual Arts, Pratt Institute and several local professional artists in attendance. I will be sending out the flyer with details early next semester with hopes our young artists will be encouraged to attend.

Thank you all for participating and supporting this and other GAC educational programs. I look forward to working together to preserve the importance of art in education.

Sincerely,

Carlos Uribe, Director of Arts Education

845-424-3960
carlos@garrisonartcenter.org