Education

Youth Artist Residency

First-Ever Youth Artist Residents at Oolite Arts

Oolite Arts is proud to welcome five rising young artists into its community as the inaugural cohort of Youth Artist Residents, beginning in January 2026. Through an ongoing partnership with The Little Haiti Cultural Complex, participating students gain access to professional arts spaces and expanded opportunities to engage with contemporary artistic practice.

Under the mentorship of Gonzalo Hernandez, the Youth Artist Residents will develop their studio practice, gain hands-on experience, and build the creative foundation that will shape their future artistic careers. The cohort includes students from Miami Arts Charter School, Miami Senior High School, Design and Architecture Senior High, and Ransom Everglades School.

Designed to bridge the gap between youth and working artists, the Youth Artist Residency supports the next generation of Miami artists through mentorship, access to resources, and sustained creative engagement.

Youth Artist Residency Headshots

(L-to-R) Ana Blanco, Noa Garcia , Melina Walsh , TJ Wright, and Emely Yanji.

The Youth Artist Residency is a 22-week program that includes a 16-week studio residency from Jan. 13 to May 14, 2026, followed by a six-week paid internship. Participants receive hands-on studio experience, mentorship, and professional guidance not typically available in high school settings.

The program culminates in a public exhibition that coincides with a main gallery opening at Oolite Arts, allowing residents to experience the full exhibition process before, during, and after opening night.