New Urban Arts, an arts studio for Providence high school students, received a national award from First
Lady Michelle Obama at the White House Wednesday.

THE PROVIDENCE JOURNAL | NOVEMBER 5, 2009 | LINDA BORG

 
New Urban Arts, an arts studio for Providence high school students, received a national award from First Lady Michelle Obama at the White House Wednesday.

The organization is one of 15 youth arts and humanities programs to receive a 2009 Coming Up Taller Award, which is part of a national initiative that recognizes outstanding out-of-school and afterschool arts programs for children, especially students with great potential but limited resources. The organization will receive a $10,000 award.

A project of the President’s Committee on the Arts and Humanities and the National Endowment for the Arts, among others, Coming Up Taller honors programs that offer exceptional learning experiences in the arts and humanities that have a tangible
effect on the lives of young people.

Founded in 1997, New Urban Arts serves more than 300 high school students, 20 emerging artists and 2,000 visitors through free youth programs, artist residencies and public performances, workshops and exhibitions.

“We are honored to be recognized as one of the nation’s best arts and youth programs as a Coming Up Taller award winner,” said Jason Yoon, executive director of New Urban Arts. “This award is a testament to all of the amazing people that have contributed to our community over the past 13 years.”

While a college senior, Tyler Denmead founded New Urban Arts by encouraging emerging artists and youths to work together as collaborators and peers. “This incredible recognition affirms his vision,” Yoon said, “and will help us share what we have learned about the role that
artists can play as community resources, helping all young people succeed.”
 
White House Press Release
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