The National Young Arts Foundation: Nurturing The Next Generation Of Artistic Talent

The National YoungArts Foundation, commonly known as YoungArts, is a prominent non-profit organization based in Miami, Florida, dedicated to identifying and nurturing young artists in the United States. Established in 1981 by Lin and Ted Arison, the founders of Carnival Cruise Lines, YoungArts has become a pivotal institution in the American cultural landscape, providing aspiring artists with opportunities for recognition, education, and career development.

Mission and Vision

The foundation’s mission is to empower the most accomplished young artists in the visual, literary, design, and performing arts. Through a rigorous annual competition, YoungArts identifies exceptional talent across ten disciplines: Cinematic Arts, Dance, Design Arts, Jazz, Music, Photography, Theater, Visual Arts, Voice, and Writing. The foundation’s vision is to support these artists at critical junctures in their educational and professional journeys, fostering a community of creative excellence and innovation.

The YoungArts Competition

The cornerstone of the YoungArts experience is its prestigious annual competition. Open to artists aged 15-18 or in grades 10-12, the competition receives thousands of applications each year. Applicants undergo a rigorous adjudication process by panels of esteemed artists and educators in their respective fields. Winners are selected at three levels: Merit, Honorable Mention, and Finalist.

Finalists are invited to participate in National YoungArts Week, held each January in Miami. During this intensive week-long program, finalists receive masterclasses and workshops from renowned artists, engage in interdisciplinary collaborations, and showcase their talents in performances, readings, and exhibitions. This immersive experience not only hones their skills but also introduces them to a network of peers and mentors that can shape their careers.

Programs and Opportunities

Beyond the competition, YoungArts offers a variety of programs designed to support young artists throughout the year:

YoungArts Miami, Los Angeles, and New York Regional Programs: These programs provide masterclasses, workshops, and performance opportunities in key cultural hubs, extending the benefits of National YoungArts Week to more participants.

YoungArts Residencies: Selected artists are given the opportunity to develop their work during in-residence programs, where they receive studio space, mentorship, and a stipend to support their creative projects.

YoungArts Post: An online platform for alumni to share their work, collaborate, and access professional development resources.

U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts: In partnership with the Commission on Presidential Scholars, YoungArts nominates 60 finalists each year for this prestigious award, recognizing artistic and academic excellence.

Impact and Alumni

The impact of the National YoungArts Foundation extends far beyond the immediate benefits of its programs. Many YoungArts alumni have gone on to achieve significant success in their respective fields, contributing to the foundation’s reputation as a springboard for future leaders in the arts. Notable alumni include celebrated actor Viola Davis, contemporary artist Daniel Arsham, singer-songwriter Josh Groban, and Tony Award-winning playwright Tarell Alvin McCraney.

YoungArts alumni often speak of the profound influence the foundation has had on their careers, citing the mentorship, community, and opportunities for exposure as critical components of their development. The foundation’s commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures that artists from all backgrounds have the chance to succeed.

Conclusion

The National YoungArts Foundation stands as a beacon of support for young artists in America, fostering a new generation of creative talent. Through its comprehensive programs and unwavering dedication to artistic excellence, YoungArts plays a vital role in shaping the cultural landscape of the future. By nurturing the dreams and ambitions of young artists, the foundation not only enriches individual lives but also strengthens the artistic community as a whole, ensuring that the arts continue to thrive and inspire.