TULSA, Okla. — The Tulsa Girls Art School works to help young girls develop their art and leadership skills.
The girls in this program say it’s about more than being creative. They’ve made friendships and gained confidence.
“I like that art is very versatile, that there’s many types. If you don’t like a type, then try a different one,” said Sydney Tran.
Sydney and Julie Tran are seniors. A friend recommended the Tulsa Girls Art School to them their freshman year, and they’ve been coming ever since.
“it’s a really good opportunity to get your foot in the water and express your creativity and do something outside of your comfort zone if you wanted to,” said Julie Tran.
They say the program has taught them more than just artistic skills.
“With the right resources and courage and strength, I can achieve more than the bare minimum,” said Julie Tran.
Sochitl Loeza and Elizabeth Lopez are also seniors and have been coming to school for years.
“The school upped my confidence. I used to be super shy. I didn’t want to talk to anybody. This helped me open up and be confident in what I do,” said Elisabeth Lopez.
They wanted to learn more about sculpting and acrylic artwork, but they’re leaving with more.
“I was able to make more friends and the friends I have at other schools also went here, so I just had a little group to myself,” said Sochitl Loeza.
The Tulsa Girls Art School is a nonprofit after school program for girls in grades 3 through 12. Amber Litwack is the executive director. She explains they want to instill a strong sense of self in the young women.
“In addition to art, we focus on youth development skills like critical thinking, problem solving, persistence; all the things that will serve them through multiple areas in their life,” said Litwack.
Right now they are gearing up for their spring show in April. The girls get to show off and sell their artwork. They get 15 percent of every piece they sell. The rest goes towards the school.
“We set up savings accounts for each of them when they enter the program and when they graduate, we write them a check,” said Litwack.
Amber says they’re excited for the upcoming show, so people in the community can learn more about how important the school is to the girls.
“We really want them to leave the school as empowered young women able to tackle whatever it is life throws at them,” said Litwack.
Currently they take about 75 girls per year, but are hoping to grow.
If you want to learn more about the spring show, donate, or volunteer click here.
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