The work of ArtEsteem is critical and youth statistics look daunting. An article from the San Francisco Chronicle, June 9, 2023 - Oakland teens witness more violence, feel sadder than U.S. counterparts shared that, “High school students in Oakland outpaced their peers in California and around the U.S. in one particularly distressing category: 36% of respondents — nearly 1,300 students — said they witnessed someone in their neighborhood get shot, stabbed or beaten” In a report by The Academy of Arts Sciences entitled, Arts for Life’s Sake, a testament to the power of arts learning for social and emotional development shared that,“The arts facilitate personal and emotional growth by providing opportunities for students to reflect on who they are and who they want to be.”
Snapshots of 26th Annual ArtEsteem Exhibition.
Here’s quotes below of students sharing the impact of participating in ArtEsteem programs:
“We are all different, but everyone should be treated equally. Everyone has different skills or talents, but we are really all the same - we are all human. I want my art to inspire others to find the courage to do what they are passionate about.”
Nikko, 8th Grade, Westlake Middle School
“I am a very anxious person and I occasionally will become closed off to the people around me, but when I am with AHC, all of my worries go away. This safe space is never discriminating or criticizing, I feel emotionally and physically safe here. I am not afraid to show my real self.”
Rodney, 11th Grade, Oakland Legacy Project
“This mural project allowed me to step up as a leader, in my school and in my community and within myself. It taught me how to be committed to something and to never give up, and always put your mind to something and believe you can do it and never let anyone tell you that you can't do it. It allowed me to step outside my box and explore my imagination.”
Umiika, 11th Grade, McClymonds High School
ArtEsteem works to uplift, inspire, & empower youth through art and creativity to express themselves, become critically aware and envision positive solutions for themselves and our communities.
Dive in with us…
Critical conversations to enrich your perspectives and open your heart
Delicious catered 3 course lunch
Hear from Oakland youth and meet our amazing community
We’ll be in our new art and healing center in West Oakland. Come experience the magic we’re cultivating.
NAVIGATION:
Our new property is located in the residential neighborhood of the Hoover Corridor at 3111 West Street.
Parking is limited to spaces on the surrounding streets. We recommend that you walk, bike, take public transportation, carpool, or rideshare to ease your arrival experience.