WMA Teens
WMA Teens was a council of up to 12 Wiregrass area high school Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors who love art and the connections art can make in a community. This council worked together to create and implement museum programming for teens, by teens. During their school year-long commitment, council members learned all about museum operations from the WMA Staff and had the chance to meet with regional artists who helped guide them in their artistic pursuits post-high school. The council also created, prepped, and hosted Teen Night for area teens, learning valuable skills such as budgeting, event planning, marketing/promotions, and project management.
Learn more about past WMA Teens councils here.
The Details
WMA programming by teens, for teens.
Was open to Wiregrass Area Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors. Had up to 12 for the first year.
All applicants attended ONE of two Application Workshops in order for their applications to be considered complete.
Participants received a stipend (planning work) and community service hours (working the events).
Participants had to attend all 14 monthly meetings: October-May; with additional meetings possible closer to events.
Participants learned about careers in art with presentations from museum staff and local/regional artists and creatives.
Participants created and executed one teen–oriented program/event, with the opportunity to participate in another smaller project, like Free Little Art Supplies Libraries or Peptoc Posters.
Participants were charged with promoting the WMA Teen programming (distributing marketing materials, communicating with peers, etc.)
"WMA Teens fostered development in many ways: through exposure to workforce skills such as project management, budget management, event planning, and communication skills both written and interpersonal. Over the course of 9 months, participants created and executed a large scale event for teens at the museum. The theme, scope, and direction of which was solely on their shoulders: an event for teens, by teens. Anyone who has planned an event of any size knows what a huge undertaking this was. We were absolutely thrilled with the outcome of last year's event and we can't wait to see what this year's cohort has in store!" - Brook McGinnis, Education Director 2021
What Selected Participants Will Gain From The Experience
Experience in the art/museum industry
Skill building:
Event Management
Project Management
Marketing/Promotional
Interpersonal and Professional Leadership Skills
Sense of ownership in WMA’s vision to “inspire creativity to enhance the everyday lives of its community…” and mission to inspire “a lifelong appreciation for the visual arts by providing innovative educational programs that engage diverse audiences through the collection and exhibition of quality works.”
Community pride
Financial support for students’ work