Posted September 21st, 2024 — Filed under Art Institute, News
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The Art Effect’s Art Institute inspires and motivates students ages 5-19, allowing young artists to explore materials, and their imaginations while preparing more advanced students for successful careers and acquiring merit-based scholarships to the nation’s best art schools in the visual and media arts. Graduates who complete the tracks of the Art Institute generate an impressive portfolio of original work.
Spring 2025 classes offer youth a variety of programming that allows them to hone their skills in their preferred mediums or explore exciting new materials.
Classes for youth ages 14–19 include:
Portfolio Development I Portfolio Development II
These 8 week classes are great for students who want to check all the college readiness boxes! Develop a unique, dynamic portfolio while expanding on your fundamental drawing and painting skills. Primarily working from observation, you will learn to balance life drawing with imaginative and photo based references. Students will create still life drawings and paintings, self portraits, live model portraits and original works of art. Students are required to bring a sketchbook.
Drawing and Painting Human Figure
Students will learn how to draw and paint the human form using sight measuring, anatomical proportions, value, contour and color! This eight week course will start with the skeletal break down, gesture drawings and short figure poses and end with extended poses. Students will learn the techniques that will help them curate their own dynamic figure compositions and portfolio. Students are required to bring a sketchbook.
Digital Art + Illustration
Create original characters, the worlds they live in and concept art that is portfolio ready in this 8 week class! Students will learn to take their ideas from sketch, to concept, to final piece. Learn what makes an interesting and original digital artwork and how to take those concepts into programs like Adobe Photoshop and Procreate. Students will walk away with 4-5 developed portfolio ready digital concepts that can be shown to colleges or prospective employers! Students are required to bring a sketchbook.
The Art Effect is pleased to present the 24th annual Hudson Valley Regional PortfolioDay at the MJN (Majad J. Nesheiwat) Convention Center on Friday, October 4th, 2024, from 4:00–8:00 pm. Over 30 admissions representatives from top art colleges across the nation will talk to students and review their portfolios for scholarship eligibility to major art schools and universities.
This event is FREE to students, teachers, guidance counselors, parents, and interested members of the general public. Students should bring 10-20 examples of original, recent artwork. During the four-hour event, students have the opportunity to meet and speak with representatives from over 30 art schools and colleges. Students obtain catalogs, admission policies, and information on scholarship opportunities directly from their preferred schools. Students also bring their art portfolios for review and evaluation, giving them a true advantage in developing a strong college application. Many Hudson Valley youth and students at The Art Effect have discovered their future college at PortfolioDay and gained an advantage in the college application process.
“Portfolio Day gave me valuable critiques, including tips on how to photograph my work better and what I could tweak in my artwork. I am currently attending Columbus College of Art & Design (CCAD), which I first discovered during virtual college visits. At last year’s Portfolio Day I spoke with a college rep who really helped me get the application process started,” says Amya West, alumna of The Art Effect & a Portfolio Day attendee in 2021.
For more information on PortfolioDay click here or call 845-471-7477.
The Art Effect is proud to announce our 2024 Art After Dark honorees: Hezues R., Karmen Smallwood, and Dutchess Community College. These distinguished honorees will be celebrated at the fifth annual Art After Dark event on Friday, November 15 from 6:00-9:00 pm at the Trolley Barn Gallery on 489 Main St. in Poughkeepsie.
Alumni Honoree, Hezues R.
Hezues R, a first-generation American, grew up in a single-parent home in Upstate New York alongside his two siblings. Despite his humble beginnings, he demonstrated a remarkable drive to excel and make a difference in his community. His self-taught skills in film and TV production, advertising, and marketing laid the foundation for a career marked by creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.
Hezues R’s journey in the creative industry is nothing short of inspiring. As an established Creative Director and Entrepreneur, he has created successful brands such as Boadicea the Victorious, earning him international acclaim and numerous awards. His innovative vision and creative prowess have made him a sought-after figure by industry icons like Russell Simmons and Jay Z.
Latin Nation aptly described Hezues R as a “Latino Mogul in the making,” a testament to his influence and potential within the industry. His work spans various major brands, shows, productions, and products, solidifying his reputation as a high-level creative force.
Hezues R’s contributions extend beyond the creative sector into public service and community activism. He served as a consultant under President George W. Bush’s “Council on Financial Literacy” and was honored by President Barack Obama in 2014 as a “Champion of Change” for his efforts to eliminate gun violence from the streets.
As a two-time ambassador for the United Nations, Hezues represented the USA in 34 countries across the western hemisphere, showcasing his commitment to global advocacy and social impact. In 2019, Hezues R founded the S.I.C. (Social Impact Content) Film School in Yonkers, NY. With a motto of “Healing Humanity One Voice at a Time,” the school aims to empower individuals through film and storytelling, fostering a new generation of socially conscious creators.
Hezues currently chairs the Hip Hop Education Center and the Westchester County Gun Violence Prevention Taskforce. His leadership in these roles reflects his dedication to education, community development, and violence prevention.
Beyond his professional achievements, Hezues R is a devoted father to three beautiful children. He values family and places a strong emphasis on community enrichment and development.
Individual Honoree, Karmen Smallwood
Ms. Smallwood currently serves as Dutchess County’s Assistant Commissioner for Youth Services charged with leading the Path To Promise initiative. She has more than 15 years of experience working in the non-profit sector as a program director, grant manager and youth advocate. In her current position, she works to enhance community assets by bridging research with practice and aligning efforts to provide the best array of resources, services and supports for children, youth, and families.
Prior to assuming her current position, she served as a law enforcement officer initiating programs to increase justice involved individual’s access to resources and opportunities. Her Interactive Journaling program and research study developed in partnership with Marist College was featured at the New York State Pretrial Services Conference and Siena Colleges’ Engage for Change Conference. She is currently spearheading local initiatives to address violence in schools and communities through her involvement in the Dutchess County Youth and Police Initiative.
As a pragmatic leader with experience in program and leadership development, she is committed to making positive sustainable contributions in her community. She is an active volunteer, serving as a trustee at Beulah Baptist Church and member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Iota Alpha Omega Chapter, and the Mid-Hudson Ivy Foundation.
Karmen Smallwood earned her bachelor’s degree from Howard University in psychology and holds a master’s degree in Counseling and Community Psychology from Marist College. In 2023, she received R.E.A.L. Skills Network Incorporated Community Icon Award. She is a parent, visionary and change-maker who strives to inspire and empower others with kindness, compassion, and humility.
Business Honoree, Dutchess Community College
Dutchess Community College (DCC) is a beacon of educational excellence and a pillar of the Hudson Valley community. Established in 1957, DCC serves more than 7,000 students each year, providing affordable and accessible education with a strong emphasis on student success. Remarkably, two-thirds of DCC students graduate debt-free, reflecting the College’s commitment to reducing financial barriers and empowering students from all backgrounds to pursue their academic and career aspirations.
Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Peter Grant Jordan, DCC has expanded its reach and impact, not only through its academic programs but also by forging vital partnerships that enrich the cultural fabric of the region. The College’s ongoing collaboration with The Art Effect highlights its dedication to the arts, ensuring that students can explore their creative passions while contributing to the community’s vibrant cultural scene.
The Art Effect is proud to celebrate the work of these three honorees. Join us for a night to remember at Art After Dark on Friday November 15, 2024. Tickets for Art After Dark are on sale now.
Fall 2024 Youth Workforce Program opportunities (MORE INFO COMING SOON)
Spark Studios
PUF Studios: 8 N. Cherry St, Poughkeepsie
Spark Studios teaches film and media arts to empower youth voices, build workforce development skills, provide paid work experience, and help students get on a path to college and career success. Spark Studios will teach students ages 14-19 cutting-edge media production techniques, how to create original films and/or content, give industry exposure, and develop skills for entry into advanced level Art Institute courses to develop film portfolios.
MADLab is an “earn while you learn” arts-based career and skills training program that trains youth ages 14-19 in visual art, media art, and design careers. This session, youth will work on visual arts and graphic design projects while developing skills that could include painting, sculpture, public speaking, leadership, workplace etiquette, presenting, and critiquing.
Youth Arts Empowement Zone Curators
Trolley Barn Gallery: 489 Main St, Poughkeepsie
The Art Effect’s Youth Arts Empowerment Zone (YAEZ) curatorial training program is composed of teens ages 14-19 who lead the ongoing activation of the Youth Arts Empowerment Zone in and around the Trolley Barn Gallery. This session, gain community engagement and curatorial skills while developing your individual creative voice. The youth curators decide what is showcased at the Trolley Barn Gallery and design complimentary public events and workshops. Build skills in public speaking, collaboration, art handling, and marketing while participating in mentorship discussions with accredited local curators, artists and community leaders. This is a great opportunity to learn how the arts can guide community development and strengthen civic participation.
Applications Coming Soon.
Students who complete the program will earn a stipend.
To fill out an interest form and be alerted when more info is available, Click Here.
Please reach out to cy@thearteffect.org or 845.471.7477 with any questions.
Senior Project, Realistic Drawing & Painting, Portfolio Development, Drawing and Painting Human Figure, Adventures in Materials, and Digital Art & Illustration all started last week! The dynamic programming at The Art Effect combines both visual art and media art in immersive, experiential courses that allow youth to experience, explore and excel in the arts in Poughkeepsie and there’s still time to sign up for our other fall classes taking place later in the year. Click on any of the classes listed below for more information or to register online:
Art classes for youth and adults ages14 – 19+ Portfolio Development II: Fridays, 6 – 9pm (no class 11/23)
Full and partial scholarships are available to those in economic need. To apply for a scholarship, please complete a Scholarship Application Form and send it to cy@thearteffect.org.
The Art Effect empowers youth to develop their artistic voice to shape their futures by giving them the opportunity to develop real skills, and guiding them towards achieving their academic and career goals. The Art Effect’s youth workforce programs build workforce development skills, provide paid work experience, and help students get on a path to college and career success! Each program offers different skills from film and photography to public art, to place keeping and curation.
Spark Studios
PUF Studios: 8 N. Cherry St, Poughkeepsie
Spark Studios teaches film and media arts to empower youth voices, build workforce development skills, provide paid work experience, and help students get on a path to college and career success. This 8 week program will teach students ages 14-19 cutting-edge media production techniques, how to create original films and/or content, give industry exposure, and develop skills for entry into advanced level Art Institute courses to develop film portfolios.
MADLab is an “earn while you learn” arts-based career and skills training program that trains youth ages 14-19 in visual art, media art, and design careers. This session, youth will work on visual arts and graphic design projects while developing skills that could include painting, sculpture, public speaking, leadership, workplace etiquette, presenting, and critiquing.
Youth Arts Empowerment Zone Curators
The Art Effect’s Youth Arts Empowerment Zone (YAEZ) curatorial training program is composed of teens ages 14-19 who make high level exhibition curation decisions and are mentored by experts in the field. This session, learn community engagement and curatorial skills while developing each youth curator’s individual creative voice. YAEZ curators lead the ongoing activation of the Youth Arts Empowerment Zone in and around the Trolley Barn Gallery. Build skills in public speaking, collaboration, art handling, and marketing while participating in mentorship discussions with accredited local curators, artists and community leaders. This is a great opportunity to learn how the arts can guide community development and strengthen civic participation. The youth curators decide what is showcased at the Trolley Barn Gallery and design complimentary public events and workshops.
On Friday, April 19 at 6:30 PM the film festival kicks off with incredible short films produced by youth from around the country, as well as from the City of Poughkeepsie. Following the showcase, Poughkeepsie youth who participated in The Art Effect’s winter break workforce training intensive with featured artist Hezues R., filmmaker and media entrepreneur and Poughkeepsie High School alumnus, will debut their collaborative film, The Last String. The evening will culminate with an awards presentation and Q&A with the youth filmmakers.
2024 Film Festival Lineup:
Heart of Pearls (Hati Manek) Runtime: 4:05 Alessandra Low & Margaret Feliciano Singapore A young Peranakan girl rejects the traditional art of Kasut Manek for modern trends, machinery, and industrialization. She only learns the importance of her culture after a fight between her and her mother and takes the first steps to embrace her tradition after apologizing.
Anna McGee’s Wild Ride Runtime: 1:36 Ava Bounds, Age 18 Leeds, UK A teenager on the cusp of adulthood flies through her entire future while stuck in a traffic jam.
For All That Was Lost Runtime: 4:46 Will Hemphill & Nolan Crane, Age 16 Newport Beach, CA For All That Was Lost follows two brothers and their wives separated by war; examining the power of human connection, love and healing.
The Last Wipe Runtime: 5:10 Yaseen AlAradi, Age 20 The Last Wipe is a student short film about a struggling university student trying to go through life and washing cars for a living.
The Gouda News Runtime: 5:14 Chatham Rigsby Savannah, GA A little girl in an effort to sell cheese for a school fundraiser stumbles upon an ingenious marketing approach.
DoMi Runtime: 8:02 Johan Hernandez, Age 18 Poughkeepsie, NY In a modern-dystopian short film, a new social media app creates a descent into madness for kids, teenagers, and adolescents. This app attracts Friend, an aspiring influencer hoping to reach the top as soon as possible, and the protagonist is brought along for the ride.
Reflection Runtime: 2:19 Jay Lau Hong Kong, China
Excoriation Runtime: 3:22 Eva Iglesias Lorenzo Vigo, Spain A series of events envelop Theresa in an emotional journey of descent through the consequences of the OCD she suffers: Excoriation Disorder, leading her to harm her own skin. In this process, Theresa battles her own monsters to regain self-control and return to the world.
Wake Up Call! Runtime: 3:42 Sarah Gleixner, Age 20 Marysville, PA A college student gets an unwanted visitor in her dorm.
Dunkin’ Runtime: 8:32 Soly Gutierrez San Antonio, TX Determined to match up to his idol, Tim Duncan, an underachieving teen with a Napoleon complex organizes a slam dunk contest.
Chrysalis Runtime: 5:47 Cherilyn Audelia, Age 20 Tangerang, Indonesia Being colorblind, a man is now trapped in an unfulfilling job after he failed to become a pilot, searching desperately for unattainable happiness that makes him dependent on psychosis that erases the line between reality and his imagination.
The Man Runtime: 3:54 Maria Dmitrieva, Age 17 Russian Federation A fantasy about a cycle where a hunter tracks down a wolf and, after eating it, becomes one himself.
Join us on day two of this year’s PKX Festival, April 19th at the Trolley Barn Gallery for the World Premiere of the Who We Are music video created by the youth of Spark Studios.
Video edited by Raymond “Rayband” C., Spark Studios
Behind The Scenes with Spark Studios
Take a look behind the scenes as the Spark Studios youth prepare for this year’s PKX Festival’s Official Music Video, “Who We Are”! VLOG Produced by JD @jaydeegreat
This year’s PKX Festival, “Droppin’ Jewels” celebrates the richness of Poughkeepsie’s community, highlighting its assets, heroes, and the intergenerational creative energy that defines the city. Throughout the free, 3-day festival, families, friends, and the community will participate in family-friendly art and media activities, teen art exhibition opening reception, short-film screenings, food trucks, vendors, and more. All components of the festival are free and open to the public.
Music Video Youth Credits:
Maximus Barry Raymond Candido Sharie Ortiz Malika Oszip Sagiv Baker October Davis Jayden Thoman Lilly Oleary Max Goodhill Riley Slosson Wiles Assael Aiden Colby
