Arts on the Block

It’s one week until #GivingTuesday, and we’re shining a spotlight on our amazing management team! Meet our Communications Director, Mya, as she shares why Arts on the Block is such a powerful pathway for young and emerging artists pursuing creative careers. ?? At AOB, we’re not just about creative workforce development—we’re reshaping how the world sees careers in the arts. Our mission is to build a future where every young person has the opportunity to explore, create, and thrive. ? Help us make that vision a reality. Donate today to support the next generation of young creatives! ?? Visit the link to contribute: https://lnkd.in/evkRKRqb #YouthEmpowerment #WorkforceDevelopment #SupportTheArts #ArtsOnTheBlock

?? It’s officially Giving Season, and we’re excited to kick it off by sharing a message from two of our incredible former Studio Crew members, Maddie and Jadyn! ? Watch as they reflect on the positive impact Arts on the Block has had in their lives, from creative connections to building pathways for success. Your support makes stories like theirs possible. Every dollar we receive goes directly toward creating paid opportunities for young artists, empowering them with valuable skills and a platform for their voices. This year for Giving Tuesday, we’re aiming to raise $20,000 to fund our hands-on arts education and creative workforce training programs for local youth. Join us in making a difference this season by contributing to Arts on the Block. Let’s fuel creativity, growth, and opportunity for the next generation! ???????

Our Apprentices are hard at work on a special commission for the Montgomery County Department of Transportation! Creativity and collaboration are essential as our young artists transform their designs into impressive mosaic artworks, honing technical skills and teamwork along the way. Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes updates from our Apprentice Program! ???

?? Join us for a Special Film Screening: Dying to Vote ?? At Arts on the Block, we believe art empowers individuals to find their voice and shape their future. While Dying to Vote focuses on the sacrifices made for the fundamental right to vote, it also speaks to the broader fight for agency and self-expression that we champion through the arts. This powerful documentary highlights fearless leaders like Vernon Dahmer and the moving story of Reena Evers. Join us as we reflect on their legacy and discuss the importance of voting rights in this critical election year. ?? Date: Saturday, October 19, 2024 ? Time: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM ?? Location: Silver Spring Civic Building ??? Registration (free): https://ow.ly/M5of50TIgN8 Co-sponsored by Arts on the Block, The Montgomery County Office of Human Rights, Impact Silver Spring, The Civic Circle, and Action Youth Media. For more information about Dying to Vote, visit Joan Mulholland Foundation. https://ow.ly/YkL350TIgN9

Last Friday, Arts on the Block proudly participated in the Buckets & Beats Block Party in Downtown Silver Spring! Our interactive mosaic foam community mural engaged attendees in a hands-on, collaborative experience, showing how creativity can unite a community. ?? We were especially proud of our registered apprentices, who took charge of our activity table, honing their community outreach skills and representing AOB with pride. It was inspiring to see Silver Spring’s youth get involved in accessible and engaging art activities, bringing the community together through creativity.

We were honored to sponsor Promise Landing Farm’s 2024 Promise Ball! This formal event was filled with inspiration, celebration, and community impact. Our Lead Teaching Artist, Jadyn C., crafted custom awards presented to the evening’s honorees. ?? The event also featured a lively auction, a wonderful dinner, and the introduction of a new program designed to support veterans and first responders with PTSD. At Arts on the Block, we believe in the power of collaboration and community outreach, and this event was a shining example of that. We look forward to future connections with Promise Landing Farm! ??

We're excited to share that Arts on the Block will be participating in the Wheaton Arts Parade on September 29th! Our Apprentices and Studio Crew will proudly represent the creative youth of Montgomery County, showcasing their talents through a collaborative parade float and demonstrating the impact of our programs on the next generation of artists. We invite you to come out, celebrate with us, and experience the incredible art and energy of this vibrant event. Date: September 29, 2024 Location: Wheaton, MD

At Arts on the Block, our commitment to empowering young creatives is at the core of everything we do. Our studio serves as a safe haven where youth can gather, learn, and explore new skills and opportunities. Your donations, no matter the size, are vital in supporting our mission and the future of these talented young individuals. By donating, you're investing in the next generation of creative leaders. Join us in making a difference—support Arts on the Block today! https://lnkd.in/gdKx7-CB

Arts on the Block is proud to participate in the EmpowerYOUth Resource Fair on September 7, 2024. This community-focused event is all about providing essential resources to Montgomery County residents. We’re excited to bring our mandala-making and button-making activities to the fair, offering attendees a chance to engage with art and learn more about our mission to empower young people through creative workforce development. Join us in supporting our community and celebrating the power of creativity!

Are you looking to enhance your space with unique mosaic art? Consider commissioning a custom piece from Arts on the Block! This aquatic-inspired backsplash was beautifully crafted by Mars B. during their tenure as a Studio Crew member. By commissioning private artwork from AOB, you not only improve your surroundings but also contribute to the professional development of our Apprentices and Studio Crew, providing them with invaluable creative workforce experience. Ready to bring your vision to life? Email us at [email protected] for pricing and details.