VSA Tennessee is committed to bringing quality arts experiences to children in educational settings. Here are the core educational programs we offer annually. Click on any program name to access details on participation.

 

ART INSTITUTE

Art Institute is a week-long day camp for students in grades 3 - 8 to discover culture through the world of arts. Children with and without disabilities gather to explore dance, drama, literature, music and visual arts through activities, creative lessons and participation. Held annually at Volunteer State Community College, Art Institute is an interactive, enriching experience for artistically-minded youth.

 

 

WORKSHOPS

Students can hone their talents and learn practical insights on careers in the arts through our Artist Workshops. Offered on weekends and after school, these topic-specific workshops introduce young people with disabilities to an array of arts and acquaint them with professions related to the arts. Past workshops have focused on unique artistic endeavors such as cartooning, costume design and pottery. Keep watch on our calendar for upcoming workshops held throughout the year statewide. Also, share ideas for workshops you'd like to attend.  

 

 

ARTIST RESIDENCIES

VSA Tennessee offers three in-depth artist residency experiences each year through a grant from the Tennessee Department of Education - Division of Special Education. The residencies allow special education teachers, art teachers and a visiting teaching artist to collaborate on a project.

 

 

THE TENNESSEE DULCIMER CHOIR

A partnership of VSA Tennessee and the Blair School of Music of Vanderbilt University, The Tennessee Dulcimer Choir is comprised of adolescents and young adults with autism spectrum disorders who are between the ages of 12 and 18 and who possess language and reading skills. This group gives participants the chance to discover, learn and play a dulcimer, with its beautiful sound steeped in American folk music tradition.

 

Instruments are provided. Previous experience and the ability to read music are not required,though participants should be able to hum a familiar tune, clap in rhythm and have a desire to make music. The program is sponsored through a grant from the Tennessee Arts Commission.