Bringing the Arts to Rural Communities: Why This Partnership Matters

Written by Jesi Miller, Program Manager

Children in rural communities often have fewer opportunities to explore the arts, even though creative experiences can be transformative for their growth, confidence, and learning. At Arts for Learning WNY, we’re committed to changing that - and that’s why we’ve been so excited to partner with the Springville Center for the Arts this Fall on our Arts Integrated Programming Initiative.

This collaboration brings diverse Teaching Artists and engaging programs directly to families in the area. Through Saturday workshops and performances, children across multiple age groups can explore a wide variety of artistic disciplines - from music and theater to visual arts and creative writing. Arts integration fosters problem-solving, emotional resilience, collaboration, and cultural awareness, skills that are essential not just in school, but in life.

Rural communities often face fewer after-school and enrichment opportunities. These programs provide safe, nurturing spaces where children can express themselves, explore their creativity, and grow emotionally and socially.

Alisia Glasier from the Springville Center for the Arts shared how the programming has already made an impact: “This programming has brought in new kids and families who may have otherwise not engaged in the arts community. As a comprehensive series, it has allowed us to reach new audiences. Parents don’t have to worry about costs, making it more accessible to more areas of our community. The instructors have been great, they are new artists in Springville who get to see and experience our village. It's creating more connections for us and, as an organization, has helped relieve some stress since we can run programming without worrying about staffing and costs."

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Teaching Artist Kelly Betschen leads children in a Galaxy Paint Night workshop this September, sparking creativity and hands-on exploration.

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We are deeply grateful to the Children’s Foundation of Erie County for their generous support. Their commitment to arts education makes programs like this possible, empowering children to build confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.

Through this partnership, Arts for Learning and the Springville Center for the Arts are helping children dream, create, and thrive.