Re-engaging At-Risk Youth through Art - The Evolution Program

Abstract

Many studies have highlighted the capacity of community arts programs to re-engage those young people considered at-risk of disconnection from future education and/or employment. Evolution is an artist-guided visual arts program established for young people challenged by mental health and social issues that aims to foster re-engagement in education and training. It was founded by a community-based youth arts studio, Signal, and in a partnership with a youth support service, has developed into an effective, strength-based model of practice that focuses on the young people’s existing capacities and positive qualities rather than setting out to improve perceived deficits. Central to the success..