Studio Sessions

Our participants arrive via partner referrals. Aspiring participants complete an application form and attend an introductory workshop to get acquainted with our program.

The program features weekly studio sessions for the cohort, spanning from September through May. We partner with artists-in-residence who design the pieces, while participants, serving as artist assistants, contribute to their execution. The body of work is an expression of the artists-in-residence’s vision for the group. The program culminates in a June exhibition featuring the pieces made throughout the year.

During the year, we invest in creating a safe space where people from different walks of life come together, show up for one another, and find a sense of belonging. Together we celebrate birthdays, visit art museums, and talk to each other. 

This program does not constitute employment. Participants may receive a fixed stipend to support their participation and offset related expenses. The stipend is not a wage and is not tied to hours, productivity, or services rendered.

A new cohort is chosen in June, and the next cycle begins in September.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • This program is specifically designed for individuals from under-resourced communities who are facing challenging circumstances. We welcome:

    • Survivors of sex trafficking and domestic violence

    • Undocumented immigrants

    • Individuals experiencing homelessness

    • Unemployed or underemployed individuals

    • Those with criminal records

    This list is not exhaustive. If you're facing other difficult circumstances and think this program might help you, we encourage you to apply. We're here for people navigating real challenges.

    You must be between 22 and 58 years old to participate. If you fit any of these descriptions and meet the age requirement, this program is for you.

  • If you are affiliated with one of our partner institutions, let them know you’re interested in participating. Our recruiting period takes place during the Summer. Our partners will send you to one of our open workshops, where you can get a feel for the project and see if it is a good fit for you. If you’re interested in participating, you’ll fill out the application form at the workshops, and we will contact you from there.

  • If you’re not referred to us by one of our partners, you can still apply to become part of our next cohort by filling out this form.

    We review all applications and conduct our selection process. Our recruiting period takes place in June. You'll receive an acceptance email by July 10th if you've been selected for the September cohort. We'll include all the details you need to get started.

  • We welcome people with criminal records. However, because we work with survivors of sexual exploitation and other vulnerable populations, we do ask about convictions related to sexual abuse, assault, or exploitation. With your consent, we may conduct a limited background check for these specific offenses only. Individuals with relevant convictions in this area cannot participate, as we work to keep everyone safe. All other backgrounds are welcome.

    Your information is kept strictly confidential, except where disclosure is required for participant safety. This is standard practice for programs serving vulnerable communities.

  • You'll work hands-on with a lead artist to create art pieces for a public exhibition. You'll:

    • Collaborate with the artist, following their creative vision and guidelines

    • Learn new skills (no experience necessary—we teach everything)

    • Work alongside other participants in a supportive team environment

    • Contribute to something meaningful that will be exhibited publicly

    This isn't about being an "expert." It's about showing up, learning, and making something real together.

  • No. Participants come from all backgrounds. We teach the skills you need, and the lead artist will guide you through every step. What matters is your willingness to collaborate, pay attention to detail, and respect the process.

  • We expect participants to:

    • Show up consistently and on time. Your presence matters to the team.

    • Be present during work. Personal devices stay away during active artmaking to keep focus and quality high.

    • Respect and include everyone. We're building a safe, welcoming space for people from different backgrounds and experiences.

    Communicate in English, Spanish, or Portuguese. (We can work with you if you're learning.)

  • The 9-month program runs from September through June of a given year, ending with a public art exhibition and graduation celebration.

  • 2 hours per week. Sessions meet either:

    • Tuesdays, 1:30–3:30 PM at 176 9th Ave, Chelsea (Neighbor studio)

    • Thursdays, 1:30–3:30 PM at 269 Bleecker St, Greenwich Village (Neighborhood Church of Greenwich Village)

    Choose whichever day works best for you.

  • No. If you need to leave for any reason—a new job, school, or personal circumstances—you can. We understand that life happens, and we support your growth in whatever form that takes.

  • Yes. Participants receive a modest weekly stipend to support your participation and help offset related costs like transportation. This is not a wage—it's not tied to hours, productivity, or services rendered. It's our way of recognizing the value of your time and commitment.

  • We focus on three main areas:

    • Renewal and Personal Growth: Reconnect with your creativity, recognize your inherent value, and develop a deeper awareness of your relationship to the environment. The workshop offers a space for meaningful making, reflection, and personal restoration.

    • Community and Connection: Cultivate a sense of belonging through shared collaborative work, fostering supportive relationships among participants and volunteers.

    • Hands-On Learning: Develop new skills in artmaking and collaboration while contributing to something that matters.

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