Art Programs for Venice Youth

* Re “Arts Group Split by Bitter Feud,” April 2:

Under the leadership of Artistic Director Ira McAlilely, a Venice resident formerly with Colors United, and currently an artist-in-residence with the L.A. Opera’s opera in the schools program, the Venice Arts Mecca is offering eight free arts workshops to Venice youth. These include a photography collaboration between kids in Venice, Watts and Pasadena, the Venice Youth Pops Orchestra & Jazz Ensemble and an architecture workshop involving youth in the design of the Venice Pavilion. Volunteer artists instruct in spaces loaned by local churches, artists’ studios and community organizations.

Regarding the pavilion, VAM is well on its way to fulfilling its dream: to transform an unused, dilapidated facility in the heart of Venice beach into a vibrant, economically self-sufficient community arts center. At the pavilion, VAM will significantly expand its arts programming while creating jobs and apprenticeships for local, low-income youth. Volunteer architects, residents and community leaders are currently completing design development and raising funds for renovation.

The Venice Arts Mecca remains committed to its founding mission: To nurture the creativity and talents of young people, particularly youth “at risk,” and to use the arts as a vehicle for making a meaningful, long-term impact on the lives of children, families and the broader community.

LYNN WARSHAFSKY

Board President, VAM