Southern Exposure’s nationally recognized Artists in Education (AIE) program brings together diverse youth, artists, schools and organizations in a dynamic series of innovative programs. AIE offers youth opportunities to learn critical, artistic, vocational, and cultural experiences beyond the traditional school environment. It also offers professional teaching opportunities for local emerging artists to become arts educators, extending their practice into the community. Sparking a dialogue on contemporary artistic practice and sociopolitical issues, AIE demonstrates the role of artists in society and reflects the conceptual thinking from our exhibition programs to provide new means of expression for youth. With the decrease of art taught in the public schools and the lack of positive, creative outlets for youth, AIE fills a crucial need in the community.

AIE Program Goals

• To create meaningful experiences for urban youth in manners that stress arts and creativity in combination with broader social services
• To infuse art into young people's lives, giving them the vital skills and viable career options they need and seek
• To cultivate greater self-esteem and personal accountability o to give professional teaching opportunities to culturally diverse artists o to provide services to community-based organizations and schools who have limited access to alternative models of arts education
• To develop community awareness, community responsibility and a sense of creative spirit in youth by stressing art as a means of addressing daily issues teens face