Youth-Artist-in-Residence Program

Youth Artist Marianne

NPS

“Art is a subject you don’t have to be good at to enjoy. It allows freedom of expression through media you don’t always use in your day to day life. Introducing environmental awareness through art to younger generations connects two topics that are greatly misunderstood. Art has always been intertwined with Washington State history from the people who were here long before white settlers, to the modern art movements embracing individualism and expression of self.” Youth Park Intern Raquel.

The Youth Artist-in-Residency (YAIR) Program at Klondike Gold Rush NHP launched in 2019 following expressed interest from that summer’s In My Backyard youth intern cohort. Park staff asked what activities youth interns enjoyed most during their In My Backyard summer and there was an overwhelming response: art! YAIR is tailored to individual youth artist’s preferred expression. It is a program for visual artists, writers, actors, musicians and other creators!

Artists have created art in national parks since the late 19th century when famed Hudson River School painters captured the majestic views of our nation’s western parks. Today, national parks host over 50 Artist-in-Residency Programs!

The park invites youth artists to challenge the traditional public land narratives, creatively using mediums and concepts that expand their personal and professional goals. Youth Artists are expected to:

• Produce at least one piece of original artwork

• Write a biography and artist statement to share with their artwork

• Document their artist process to share with the public

• Attend weekly check-ins with their supervisor

• Clearly and respectfully communicate and collaborate with park team members

Through collaboration with National Park Service staff and independent project design, youth artists (ages 13-22) create original content showcased in Klondike’s visitor center, youth programming, social media, and other online platforms. This is a paid opportunity through park non-profit partner Discover Your Northwest. The YAIR Program is flexible with school schedules, with youth receiving stipends and school credit as compensation.

Are you interested in the Youth Artist-in-Residence Program? Email e-mail us for more information!