Mentoring Young Artists

Applications are complete for the 2026 MYA Program. But we’re always seeking program volunteers and will be searching for new MYA members in 2027.

The Union for Contemporary Art values diversity. We encourage candidates of any race, religion, color, disabilities, gender, sexual orientation, or national origin to apply.

• You are a young artist, 16-18 yrs of age, and have a desire to share your talents with younger artists! (ages 8-15 yrs)
• You love to draw, paint, collage, mix mediums, create stop motion or animated videos, make block prints or cut stencils. 
• You are passionate about the arts and building community
• You have a strong desire to pursue a career in the arts
• You can commit to ALL professional development trainings, peer mentorship experiences, and portfolio development as follows:

Training Intensive

June 15 - June 25 (Monday - Thursday)
10 a.m. -4 p.m.

Camp Union*

July 7 - July 31 (Monday - Friday)
8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.*

Portfolio Development

August 3-5 (Monday - Wednesday)
10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Final Presentations

August 6
4 - 8 p.m.

*Peer mentors will not be scheduled for the entire duration of camp. We will coordinate schedules as a team once the cohort begins, based on individual preference and Camp needs. 

Under the guidance of Union staff, participants will be expected to:

• Encourage, inspire, and lead younger artists in learning and creative play
• Assist with setup, cleanup, and general maintenance of the youth studios
• Create a teaching artist portfolio for professional use
• Engage with and assist Union staff, teaching artists, and local artists as needed

• Gain experience with mentoring, teaching artistry, group facilitation
• Practice creative problem solving and art-making techniques
• Connect with and learn from local artists, educators, and nonprofit leaders

Open communication is encouraged throughout the program. In addition to weekly check-ins, where peer mentors are invited to reflect on their experience and ask career questions, the mentors are asked to complete a final written reflection to help us understand how we can improve the program experience.