Youth Artist Residency
The Oolite Arts Youth Artist Residency is a highly supportive program for young artists ages 16 to 18 who dream of becoming professional artists. The residency provides young, aspiring artists with skills, knowledge, and encouragement not typically available in high school because it points them to a professional career as a working artist.
It spans 22 weeks, including a 16-week artist residency from Jan. 13 to May 14, 2026, followed by a six-week paid internship with professional artists from July 1 to Aug. 7, 2026.
Designed to bridge the gap between high school students who aspire to be artists and the world of professional artists–studio practice, gallery relationships, grant seeking, selling artwork, and more–the program offers immersive, real-world experience that introduces students to artist careers.
Program Structure:
Residency (January–May) Sessions held twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5-8 PM, featuring mentorship, studio practice, and the development of a single artwork for the final exhibition.
Paid Internship (July–August) Hands-on professional experience at Oolite or partner organizations.
Public Exhibition (August) A culminating showcase coinciding with the opening of Oolite’s main gallery, giving students the opportunity to present their work to the public.
Applicants Must Submit:
- Personal information
- If under 18, parent or legal guardian information
- Portfolio showcasing recent work
- Statement of interest outlining artistic goals and motivations
- Two professional references
If Selected as a Finalist:
- Audition
- Portfolio Review
- Interview
If Accepted:
- Parent or guardian must sign a minor participation agreement
Eligibility Requirements:
- Miami-based youth artists, ages 16-18.
- Committed to pursuing a career in the arts.
- Available Tuesdays and Thursdays, January 13 to May 14, from 5-8 PM, plus three days per week from July 1 to August 7 for the paid internship.
- Parent/guardian permission and reliable transportation.
Program Benefits:
Participants in the Oolite Arts Youth Artist Residency receive a range of opportunities and resources designed to support their growth as emerging artists.
- Mentorship from professional artists and art educators to guide artistic development and career planning.
- Hands-on studio experience to create a portfolio-ready work for the final exhibition.
- Networking opportunities with Miami’s vibrant arts community, including gallery visits, field trips, and artist talks.
- Paid summer internship at Oolite Arts or partner organizations to gain real-world professional experience.
- A public exhibition of youth artist work in the vitrine, presented to coincide with the opening of Oolite’s main gallery exhibition, offering exposure to a wider audience.
- Skill-building in technical, critical, and professional practices to prepare for higher education and future artist careers.
For additional information, please contact Catalina Aguayo.
[email protected]
Youth Artist Residency
Skill-building in technical, critical, and professional practices to prepare for higher education and future artist careers.
Applications
Oct. 2-Oct. 26, 2025
Contact
Catalina Aguayo
[email protected]
