Empowering Teens Through Creative Expression

Our Studio Arts Program transforms Chicago teens' lives through year-round arts training, building discipline, creativity, and professional pathways while connecting them to their community.

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About The Studio Arts Program

Building Artists, Leaders, and Changemakers

The Studio Arts Program offers year-round arts training to Chicago teens aged 14-18, aligning with the Chicago Public Schools' calendar. Under qualified Teaching-Artists' supervision, students master elements and principles of art and design, explore diverse mediums. Our program includes community art projects, gallery exhibitions, museum field trips, artist studio visits, and academic advising—all audited by the City of Chicago Department of Family Support Services.

A diverse group of nine young people standing outside a building, holding a colorful banner that reads 'Studio Arts Program.'

Classes Now Enrolling

Creative Skills That Transform Lives

Art Skills

Technical mastery across mediums, including drawing, painting, printmaking, graphic design, and mosaic work. Students learn elements and principles of art and design while developing their personal artistic voice.

Job Readiness

Essential professional skills, including time management, teamwork, project presentations, analytical thinking, and critique. Students practice art history research, exhibition planning, and portfolio development while building confidence in public speaking and professional communication.

Community Collaboration

Hands-on experience with community art projects, gallery exhibitions, and public presentations. Students connect with local artists, participate in museum field trips, and engage with Chicago's vibrant arts scene while developing cultural awareness and civic responsibility.

Hear from Our Community

Hear from Our Community

“You are constantly put in a group of kids the same age, ice breakers, socialize and get to know each other. [LMP has] given me a chance to grow as a person and get out my shell.”

— Julian Guerreo, Belmont University

“LMP has been amazing…I found my passion for music through it. I use to have such stage fright and social anxiety compared last year. I found friends that became family."

— Oliver Mendoza, Chicago Highschool Arts

“The program creates a beautiful community atmosphere. My child feels seen, valued, and excited to learn every week.”

— Latin Music Project Parent

“Programs like these are important for youth today because they help them enjoy another part of culture they thought they didn't know, even if they are not Latinos, they could still enjoy culture and share culture around as well.”

— Kaylee C.

"My daughter gained confidence and found her artistic voice through this program. Watching her present her work and collaborate with other teens has been incredible. The bilingual instructors truly understand our community."

— Parent of Student

"The program's focus on community art projects taught me how creativity can make a real difference. I learned that art isn't just personal expression—it's a tool for positive change in our neighborhood."

— Dinaluz Torres, UIC School of Arts Student

"The Studio Arts Program gave me discipline and opened my mind to creativity. I discovered that art is the professional path I want to follow—it changed my entire life direction and gave me purpose."

— Jennessa I. Martínez, SAIC Graduate

"Through perfect attendance and commitment to my apprenticeships, I learned time management and teamwork skills that helped me succeed academically. The program prepared me for college in ways I never expected."

— Tabitha Moore, Columbia College Student

“My daughter’s confidence has grown so much. She’s learning about our music and culture, and even picking up Spanish along the way.”

— Latin Music Project Parent

“Being part of LMP connected me deeply to my Puerto Rican roots. Performing at the National Cuatro Festival was life-changing—it showed me what I’m capable of.”

— Esther F.

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After School Matters Partnership

Through our partnership with After School Matters (ASM), we offer intensive apprenticeship programs that provide teens with advanced artistic training and real-world experience. Current offerings include the Garment Repurposing Fashion Studio, focusing on sustainable fashion practices through airbrush stenciling, patchwork, and sewing techniques. Our programs bridge the gap between foundational arts education and professional artistic practice, preparing students for advanced study and careers.

Group of diverse students and a man wearing a black blazer posing in front of a colorful abstract mural featuring horses and human figures.

Apply for Our Apprenticeship Program!

Our ASM apprenticeships meet three days per week and require interviews for admission, ensuring a serious commitment to creative growth. Apprentices work toward community showcases, such as our Xperimental Runway Fashion Show, combining creativity with environmental consciousness.

Containers filled with various paintbrushes and palette knives, some covered in paint.

Meet Our Instructors

Our diverse team of arts professionals, instructors, and guest artists are actively engaged in Chicago's art and music scene and communities. Most instructors are bilingual (Spanish/English), ensuring accessibility for our predominantly Latino community. Each brings professional experience and cultural understanding that enriches our students' learning experience.

Christine Abigaíl Meinders

Jorge Felix
Studio Arts & Exhibition Program Director

Jorge Felix, artist, curator, and arts administrator from Puerto Rico, has lived in Chicago since 1993. One of the founding members of Chicago Cultural Alliance, he is known for cross-cultural arts integration, community activism, and award-winning set design.

Reynaldo GuAracibo Rodriguez
Studio Arts Program Instructor

Puerto Rican artist based in Chicago whose murals and sculptures highlight resilience, family, and cultural identity. His work includes the “Seeds from Our Past” mural in Humboldt Park, and he continues to mentor youth through PRAA and other initiatives. His art serves as both a personal archive and a community legacy. Reynaldo also leads the Bazar Art Studio class at PRAA.

Claudia Lopez
Studio Arts Program Instructor

Educator with a Master’s degree as a Reading Specialist and a Bilingual Endorsement. She has taught in Chicago Public Schools, supervised student teachers at National Louis University, and currently teaches 3rd grade while serving on the instructional leadership team in District 68. Claudia also leads the Little Genius class at PRAA.