THE ARTSTART STORY

ArtStart began in 2002 to help children in Edmonton who have no access to the arts due to lack of family financial resources. There are many studies have shown the positive effect the arts have on children, such as improved self-esteem, doing better in school and connecting with positive adult role models. ArtStart wanted to make sure that all children in Edmonton had these benefits.

ArtStart is a program that offers high quality lessons and experiences in visual art, drama, dance, creative writing and music. These opportunities are for children 5-14 years of age that come from low-income homes.

In 2007/08 we offered 11 group lessons and 18 private music lessons to over 100 students. We went on 11 field trips and had two public shows.

We are excited to offer a great line up of classes and opportunities for children during 2008/09!

What ArtStart Has to Offer
High-quality lessons in visual art, dance, drama, music and creative writing.
Performance and gallery showing opportunities several times each year.
Field trips and scholarships to outstanding participants.

Who ArtStart Serves
Our classes are for children 5 -14 years from low-income families.

ArtStart Goals
Reach children in creative ways and provide opportunities not always available in a regular school program
Help children understand the value of working as a team and the importance of friendships.
Provide creative challenges to students at all levels.
Demonstrate a variety of artistic skills and have children express themselves in their own way
Create lifelong patrons of the arts.

Where and When is ArtStart?
Regular programming in Visual Art, Dance, Creative Writing, Music and Drama runs from September to June on Tuesdays at Parkdale School and Thursdays at E4C. Private music lessons are arranged at the convenience of instructors and parents.

How to Help?
Purchase one of ArtStarts 2008/09 Calendars for only $10! All proceeds go directly to ArtStart! Contact us at 780-424-7543 ext 127 to purchase yours!

Who Supports ArtStart?
All programs are led by a team of volunteer arts professionals and students. Funding comes entirely though donations from the community.

Through our partners and sponsors we are able to offer scholarships for outstanding participants. We are a partner agency with Summer @ CCEP, a six-week day camp for kids from the eight schools of the City Centre Education Project.

For more information please contact:

Art Start
Alex Taylor School
9321 Jasper Avenue T5H 3T7
Fax: 780.425.5911

Cadence Konopaki, Program Coordinator
Phone: 780.424.7543 ext. 127
Fax: 780.425.5911
E-mail: ckonopaki@e4calberta.org

Download the ArtStart Fact Sheet