DAC youth entrepreneurial arts series to kick off June 23

The Developing Artist Collaboration announced the launch of Artist Rising, a dynamic youth entrepreneurial arts program designed for youngsters ages 9 to 14. The first four-week session will begin Monday, June 23, at DAC Artpothecary, 37401 Malloy St., Rehoboth Beach.

The innovative summer workshop series will provide opportunities for young creatives to learn from professional working artists, develop hands-on artistic skills and gain real-world business experience, all culminating in their very own public art show at the West Side Creative Market.

Not just another summer camp, Artist Rising is an opportunity for kids to explore their passion for art while learning essential entrepreneurial skills. With eight unique opportunities, participants will engage in thematic weeks focusing on fine art, ceramics, upcycled art and handmade products, while learning how to brand, market and sell their work.

“Artist Rising bridges the gap between creativity and entrepreneurship for the youth in our area,” said Leah Beach, DAC founder. “We want kids to see that art is more than just self-expression; it’s a career path, a business and a way to engage with their community in a meaningful way.”

In addition to providing youth with invaluable hands-on experience, Artist Rising offers paid teaching opportunities for DAC’s working artist mentors. Professional artists will  guide students through creative techniques and share insights regarding how they sustain their careers, giving participants a firsthand look at what it means to be a creative entrepreneur.

DAC is committed to ensuring accessibility by offering a sliding-scale tuition model, making Artist Rising affordable for families of all income levels. The subsidy is available for families based on their household income, with significant discounts and in some cases, free tuition. The DAC encourages families from western Sussex County who may have transportation challenges to reach out if they are interested.

The program also partners with local community organizations to identify low- to moderate-income students who can benefit from subsidized participation. 

To learn more, go to developingarts.org/artistrising.