We kicked off this fundraiser this past Giving Tuesday December 3, 2023 with a drive that has us well on our way to $25,000 with the help of 47 intrepid supporters raising $10,331. Join them today in helping The Art Effect reach its goal this year!
At The Art Effect, art is more than creating—it’s a starting point for growth, connection, and transformation. We use the power of creativity to inspire and empower youth, reaching over 4,000 young people each year through hands-on programs in visual arts, media, film, and public art. These experiences become more than art—they become stepping stones to personal and professional success.
Through opportunities to explore their creativity, develop critical skills, and connect with mentors and peers, our young artists discover their unique voices and unlock a world of possibility. With every brushstroke, every film project, and every community art initiative, art becomes the beginning of something powerful.
This year, your support goes even further. Thanks to a matching gift, every dollar donated will be doubled, up to $25,000—amplifying the impact of your gift on the lives of thousands of young people.
Join us in making art the beginning of a journey that changes lives, shapes futures, and strengthens our community. Your donation today can make all the difference.
UPDATE: Due to high traffic volume on Giving Tuesday, our fundraising site experienced some stability issues. We have been told the issue was resolved, but if the donate button doesn’t load a page, CLICK HERE to be taken to The Art Effect’s internally-hosted donation page. All donations made on this page will count towards the fundraiser and be a part of the matching donation campaign.
The Art Effect is now accepting applications for the 2024 Winter Intensive sessions of its two workforce development programs, Spark Studios and MADLab. These workforce programs are paid arts-based career and skills training experiences.
Spark Studios Intensive: Learn and develop photography and video production skills, including all three parts of production skills, to produce a final project!
MADLab Intensive: Create and transform a 2D nature painting into a 3D pop-up sculpture that could be showcased in the City of Poughkeepsie!
Intensive Dates: December 2th – 12th, Monday – Friday 3:00-5:30pm.
We had a sensational night at Art After Dark 2024 in the Trolley Barn on Friday November 15. Guests mingled under starry lighting and took in the last moments of The Duo Show’s time in the gallery. Spettro passed delicious hors d’oeuvres, including an amazing Ricotta & Grape Crostini, while guests waited in line to get the Vassar Violet Bloom signature drink, a blend of Tito’s, butterfly pea flower tea, ginger, and lemon. For the younger crowd and the alcohol-free, the mocktail mimicked the same magical effect, where the blue butterfly pea flower tea turned purple with the splash of lemonade mixing in.
Especially heartwarming were the speeches from the night’s honorees and the individuals introducing them. Franky Perez had a surprise reunion with Alumni Honoree and mentee Hezues R. Tahleeya Raphael introduced Karmen Smallwood with an anecdote that reminded us of how deep and long-standing Karmen’s commitment to the youth of the city of Poughkeepsie has been. And Mary Ellen got the room on its feet as we all stood together to acknowledge the widespread impact that honoree Dutchess Community College has on our community.
Marielena Ferrer helped guests develop a deeper understanding of the themes behind her work as they tore butterflies from tissue paper to join future iterations of her installation. YAEZ Curators guided attendees in engaging with Kimmah Dennis’ work through polaroid photos and chalk interactions. Young and young-at-heart alike delighted in helping us fill our chalk photo booth wall.
This event was also host to a couple monumental firsts! Staff member, Sarah Taylor, hosted Art After Dark’s first Paddle Raise for donations and by the end of the night we had raised over $9,000 dollars. Board Member and longtime friend of The Art Effect David Bloom and his wife Beverly Kaufman who were unable to attend, raised their hand remotely to give a $500, along with a few others who called in to participate with the paddle raise remotely.
We also had an amazing announcement where we learned that board member, Kit Laybourne and his wife Gerry would be donating a $25,000 match to any donations that came in that night and subsequently to our annual appeal.
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.
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 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.
Posted September 1st, 2024 — Filed under Featured Events
Tagged
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.
Experience art through the eyes of talented teens who created an impressive collection of artworks, including drawing, painting, photography, digital animation, film, mixed media, and more!
Teen Visions is a culmination of the hard work and dedication of selected young artists from The Art Effect’s 2024 summer programs including Summer Art Institute, Junior Art Institute, MADLab, Spark Studios, and D-LIT. It is an incredible accomplishment to be chosen for the Teen Visions Exhibition. Teaching artists and staff choose more than 65 artworks of exceptional technique to be included in the exhibition taking place at the beautiful Trolley Barn Gallery.
Visual works in the show – which always proves both richly varied and exciting, as well as a demonstration as to why nearly all of The Art Effect’s Art Institute students get into the nation’s top visual arts programs – include paintings, drawings, mixed media, photography and sculpture by students from many Mid-Hudson school districts, counties, towns, villages and cities. The exhibition will be on display through September 6, 2024. Gallery hours are listed above.
Family, friends, and the community are invited to join us for an opening reception on Saturday, August 24 from 6–8 PM.
We invite students back on Friday, September 6 from 6–8 PM for a closing reception and pre-portfolio day. Students will have the opportunity to have photographs taken of their work as well as receive pre-portfolio reviews in preparation for Portfolio Day on October 4. Teen Visions’ artists will be able to take their artwork home with them at the end of the evening!
Exhibition Events:
Opening Reception: Saturday, August 24, 6–8 PM Trolley Barn Gallery, 489 Main St, Poughkeepsie NY 12601
Closing Reception & Pre-Portfolio Day: Friday, September 6, 6–8 PM Trolley Barn Gallery, 489 Main St, Poughkeepsie NY 12601
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.
The Youth Arts Empowerment Zone (YAEZ) liaisons have revitalized the pavement outside the Trolley Barn Gallery with a vibrant mural, revamping the previous artwork. This project is part of their annual community engagement efforts, where local students organize workshops, art activities, and an arts festival.
The YAEZ liaisons collaborated on a lively, pop-inspired design. Through interactive workshops, they created characters and themes celebrating nature and Poughkeepsie’s landscape. The community embraced the project, with over 50 people participating in the painting process. The mural now serves as a joyful centerpiece, engaging residents and visitors with community spirit!
