Milkweed’s Kreativ U-Turn Apprenticeship Project

Igniting the creative imagination, without fail, brings to surface the unique expression of individuality.

You bear witness to this in the range and variety of drawings created during the Kreativ U-Turn project. Each of these drawings was made with an awareness of the sense modalities – visual, auditory, kinesthetic, tactile – all of which extend the creative process into a three-dimensional experience! Operating here one comes upon the privilege of personal meanings, impressions, sensations, feelings and intuition. And one has the liberty and space of time of forming those responses.

Seven emerging artists (EAs) have been on that same journey whilst learning the core concepts and techniques of the Exploring Creativity in Depth program. It’s been an honour to witness the transformations particularly through those very intensive weekends of training. Staying the course, they demonstrated through drawings and reflections the depth of their experience and commitment to the process. The invaluable support and teachings of the Milkweed Staff aided in their passage.

Moreover they have learned how to facilitate the release of creative potential in children and youth through engagement with the creative imagination. Demonstrating strong leadership, clear and effective communication and solid teamwork, the EAs achieved unexpected results. The programs were infused with awe and wonder, enthusiasm and curiosity, courage and perseverance, boldly leading children and youth in three uniquely dynamic, multi-modal arts camps. Trusting in the creative process, both facilitators and campers became explorers in the unknown seeking new potential. Parent and participant feedback clearly affirmed an environment of joy, play, freedom, collaboration, and new discoveries and friendships.

On a larger scale, the new partnerships formed with the libraries and the resounding success of the Summer Arts programs have opened up opportunities for the future arts. It is clearly evident that all those involved saw the transformative potential of art to inspire the hearts and minds of children and youth, and its capacity to revitalize communities.