Programs

The Art Effect provides youth with a comprehensive core program sequence that benefits from cross-disciplinary visual and media arts education. Our programs are arranged into three overlapping branches: Explore, Experience, and Excel. Explore focuses on providing immersive introductory-level experiences in visual arts and media for students ages 4-11. Experience engages with students ages 11-18 using art as a hands-on tool for self-discovery, life skills development, and early job experiences. Excel provides youth ages 14-24 with advanced art programs to prepare them for entrance into higher education or career.

The Art Effect facilitates educational programming, community building and youth leadership at three locations within Poughkeepsie; 45 Pershing Ave, the Poughkeepsie Underwear Factory at 8 N. Cherry St, and the Trolley Barn Gallery, 489 Main St.

Youth Programming at the Trolley Barn Gallery

Re-activating the iconic Trolley Barn through an innovative approach to youth empowerment through the arts, The Art Effect puts youth in the driver’s seat of this incredible space, empowering them to engage community members and visitors in transformative arts experiences that they curate. Establishing connections with curators and arts professionals, The Art Effect at the Trolley Barn brings impressive exhibitions of high-caliber artwork to Poughkeepsie.

The Art Effect presents youth-led exhibitions that complement other exhibitions featuring art created by youth. This unique mix will become a permanent piece of The Art Effect’s portfolio of programs designed to strengthen. our community and showcase the positive impacts of arts and arts education. In addition, new workforce programming brings together youth and established art professionals to present impactful exhibitions to engage our neighborhood and acquaint youth with curatorial and exhibitions practices. Learn more about Curatorial Studies at the Trolley Barn Gallery.

Curatorial Programs

The Art Effect’s curatorial training programs are composed of youth who make high level exhibition curation decisions, are mentored by experts in the field and work within the community to implement two annual arts festivals in Poughkeepsie, NY.