Art for Well-Being: The Role of Culture-Based Youth Arts Programs in the Learning Ecosystem

• In Event: Community-Centered Approach to Out-of-School-Time Research

Abstract

Culturally-centered, community-based arts (CCBA) programs blend arts and cultural learning in a community-based context. They not only address gaps left by the decline in school-based arts opportunities for youth of color but provide avenues for youth to have
exceptional art experiences that shape identity growth and well-being. We conducted cross-age workshops (i.e., interactive focus groups) in 36 arts/music programs across 8 cities with a total of 230 youth and 73 adults. In a card sorting exercise, participants chose three program outcomes that best represented the goals of their program. Participants overwhelmingly chose goal-cards associated with psychological well-being. This study adds evidence that CCBA programs play an important role in arts education and identity development, and particularly in supporting well-being.

Authors

• Thomas Akiva, University of Pittsburgh

• Esohe R. Osai, University of Pittsburgh

• Tracy Medrano, University of Pittsburgh

• Jaclyn Rose Spiezia, University of Pittsburgh