Are you an artist, arts organization or venue?

arts organization

What town do you live in?

Amherst, Easthampton and Ware

In which disciplines do you work or exhibit?

Painting, Photography, Video, Sculpture, Installation

Artist Statement/Bio

We engage young people in dialogue and art-making that arises from their own issues and concerns as youth citizens of this world. Youth Action Coalition is grounded in the belief that all young people have a voice and must be encouraged to express it, shape it, and propel it. Our projects provide the base from which young people learn artistic and technical skills and use them to speak out and organize in their communities.

YAC is committed to moving power into the hands of young people of every race, class, orientation, and ability. In our projects young people decide for themselves what problems are important to them, how those problems have come to exist, and what kind of action is appropriate, effective, and fun. YAC gives them the time, space, and support they need to make their dreams become reality.

Our programs include: GirlsEyeView, Get Up Get Down, Video Vanguards, and E'town Rising.

Describe your organization or gallery

Youth Action Coalition (YAC) is a community-based organization promoting youth empowerment through creative expression and social action projects. We pair intensive arts immersion with social justice education, working with youth to foster their natural talents as artists and build on their strengths as community leaders and agents of change.

YAC is based in Amherst, Massachusetts with programs geared for middle and high school-aged youth in Amherst, Easthampton, Ware and the surrounding towns.

Website

http://www.youthactioncoalition.org