Visual Arts

In the visual arts workshops at Genesee County Juvenile Justice Center and through their day treatment programming, our teaching artists do more than merely teach drawing skills – they provide a non-judgmental atmosphere in which the students take ownership of the creative process.

Emotional Connection

Visual Arts positively impacts the youths’ moods “I put my blood, sweat and tears into my artwork.” This reveals a shared emotional connection to their artwork, where they are able to take their time and feel comfortable in the visual arts workshops.

Visual Arts Workshops
YAU offers 40 visual arts workshops per year!

Students create a wide range of visual art projects: using different mediums, trying different techniques, learning about different artists/art movements, and exploring art from all over the globe. Working on both long-term group projects, such as murals, as well as individual drawings and paintings that can be completed in one workshop session, YAU youth take pride in their works that are exhibited in shows throughout Genesee County. Check out our EVENTS page!

Messages to Youth
From the public

"Even locked up, keep your passions alive. It makes a difference. I did 36 years, and it is important to keep moving forward. Times will get better, trust me, I've been through it. I know, keep strong and moving forward."

"I liked the pretty colors and I really liked the SUN!"
-from a 5 yr old

"Powerful messages—I wonder where you will go with your talent —seek."

"Thank you for sharing your skillful artistic vision! Keep developing and inspiring others with your work!
Thank you."

"Beauty is only skin deep. Shine forever. Love forever."

"Your Art is beautiful! Thank you for sharing Keep it up!"

"You are worth so much and you are loved. Keep your head up, we all go through pain and struggle. Don't let this keep you down you are someone special keep up the good work"

"Although life has its challenges, you can overcome anything and live an incredible life! Keep sharing your amazing talents.
Your artwork is incredible" :)
Thank you!

"These art pieces are wonderful. Keep up the good work."

"Beautiful, heart wrenching words/ Please hang in there! The world is awaiting your return. You can begin again with what you have learned and what you will leave behind."