The Old Town Artisan Studios (OTAS) in La Quinta has celebrated the graduation of six Coachella Valley high school students from its inaugural Aspiring Artists mentorship program. The program has equipped these students with enhanced creative skills and the knowledge necessary to pursue a career as a visual artist.
According to an OTAS press release, the Aspiring Artists program is designed to supplement visual arts education for youth in the Coachella Valley. It offers an intensive curriculum that includes workshops, seminars, and field trips. The program equips students with professional skills such as crafting artist statements and self-promotion tactics. Moreover, it provides them with firsthand experience from established artists about what it takes to succeed in this field.
Isabela Garcia, OTAS Gallery and Events Coordinator, stated in the press release, “As a non-profit organization, OTAS is dedicated to fostering the creative spirit of the Coachella Valley. Initiatives like the Aspiring Artists program uphold our mission of providing positive art experiences to individuals of all backgrounds. By offering this free enrichment program, we ensure that artistic expression remains inclusive and accessible.”
The press release also highlighted collaborative support from area schools for the program. Specifically, it mentioned Desert Sands Unified School District’s essential role in promoting Aspiring Artists to students and faculty.
The students who participated in the program were identified in the press release as Keira Farmer (Palm Desert High School), Emily Hinsley (La Quinta High School), Raevyn Johnson (La Quinta High School), Rubi Maldonado (Shadow Hills High School), Levi Reyes (La Quinta High School), and Makayla Townsend (La Quinta High School).
Finally, according to the press release, the spring 2024 Aspiring Artists program culminated in an exhibit allowing students to display and sell their artwork. Held at OTAS’ Leland Gallery, this group exhibit—titled “Aspire, Create, and Present”—opened on April 18 and concluded on May 11.
