Applications now open for WMA Teens

WMA is accepting applications for the second year of its WMA Teens program, now through September 19th. WMA is looking to select up to twelve area sophomores, juniors, and seniors from Wiregrass region public, private, or homeschools who are oriented toward the arts and creativity, and who are looking to gain experience in arts programming and collaboration.

The museum launched WMA Teens during the 2021-22 school year, and will build on last year’s successes to reach teen audiences. Previous projects from WMA Teens include a well-attended Teen Night, planned and implemented by the students, and a public art project for three Free Little Art Supplies Libraries, located at community centers in Dothan and inside the museum.

Selected WMA Teens participants will work together to create and implement museum programming for teens, by teens. During this school year long commitment, teens will learn about museum operations and pathways toward arts-oriented careers and education from museum staff, and will have the opportunity to meet with regional artists who can help guide them in their artistic pursuits beyond high school. The committee will also create, prep, and host Teen Night for area teens, honing valuable skills in project and budget management, event planning, marketing/promotions, and arts outreach. Participating students who complete the program from October 2022 to May 2023 will receive a $300 stipend and are eligible for community service hours.

Participants must attend all 14 bi-monthly meetings from October to May, with the possibility for additional meetings possible closer to events. WMA staff will review applications and make selections for members each year, with a focus on selecting a council of students from diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and schools. Previous WMA Teen members must reapply for consideration in the upcoming year.

“The feedback we received from last year’s cohort was so encouraging. One participant stated that WMA Teens was the highlight of their year and that they gained ‘values, a work ethic, and work goals’ they would not have gained otherwise. This is exactly what we hoped for. We want area teens to feel that WMA is a safe space for them to learn, grow, and simply be themselves!” said Brook McGinnis, WMA’s education director.

To apply online, students can visit https://www.wiregrassmuseum.org/wma-teens/. For more information on WMA Teens or other education programs and offerings, please contact the museum at 334-794-3871.