ArtWaves

A mixed arts engagement programme by Teen Action for under-represented young women.

ArtWaves is one of Teen Action’s flagship programmes, delivered for more than a decade, and designed to provide weekly arts engagement opportunities for minoritised young women aged 16-18 years.

The programme is designed to expose participants to different decorative & applied art mediums and to develop craftsmanship, creativity, and problem-solving skills on their paths to employment.  Programmes on offer have been chosen by young women and include pyrography, confectionery, floristry, photography, digital illustration, and hairstyling.

Recent developments in the programme curriculum include the recognition, development, and progression of essential skills, alongside technical skills. Each session participants focus on, and practise, one or more skill steps with the opportunity to reflect in their very own reflection log.  Self-assessments at the start and end of the programme evidence progression, for which participants receive certification.

Teen Action recognises the importance of developing essential skills, and are piloting this approach with their ArtWaves provision, with the intent to scale this across all delivery, including employment support, training programmes, retreats and mentoring support.