The Arizona Commission on the Arts invites teenaged artists and creatives to join the AZ Youth Arts Council. The advisory group will work to ensure that Arizona’s youth perspective is heard in arts programming and policy. Creative young people between the ages of 14 and 19 who have an interest in the arts are encouraged to apply. The Arts Commission hopes to include young people representing each of the state’s 15 counties. Applications must be submitted by July 21, 2022.

Those selected to represent their community on the AZ Youth Arts Council will:

  • Learn about policy to advocate for equal access to the arts for all young people in Arizona
  • Advise the Arts Commission on grant programs and initiatives that directly affect young people
  • Review issues related to arts and culture programs and services for young people
  • Help administer the Creative Youth Grant to young people throughout Arizona
  • Create arts and media projects highlighting the arts in their communities

Council members will enjoy opportunities to engage with young artists and arts professionals from throughout the state, build creative leadership skills, and gain valuable experience in and knowledge of public policy. Each AZ Youth Arts Council member will receive a stipend of up to $800, compensating them for their time and expertise. AZ Youth Arts Council members will participate in online council meetings every month, create a media project highlighting the arts in their community and help to administer the Creative Youth Grant.

The Arts Commission will announce those selected to join the AZ Youth Arts Council September 1, 2022. The council’s first online meeting will be held in October and continue monthly through May 2022.

An agency of the State of Arizona, the Arizona Commission on the Arts is dedicated to creating opportunities for all Arizonans to participate in and experience the arts. To that end, the agency, which receives funds from the state as well as the federal government, delivers grants and support to cultivate sustainable arts communities and promote statewide public access to arts and cultural activities.

To learn more and submit an application, visit http://azarts.gov/programs/az-yac.