Youth Insights Celebration
Dec 17, 2015
YI Artist Michael poses with his certificate of completion. Photograph by Filip Wolak
On December 15, The Whitney hosted a celebration for Youth Insights participants. Friends, families, and teachers came together to celebrate the incredible work of this semester’s Artists and Leaders.
Family and friends of Youth Insights participants explore Frank Stella: A Retrospective. Photograph by Filip Wolak
The celebration began in the fifth floor galleries, which were open exclusively for the event. Youth Insights participants were invited to explore the exhibitions Frank Stella: A Retrospective and Rachel Rose: Everything and More with their families and friends while Leaders led tours and activities. Sculptural interventions created by Youth Insights Artists with artist-in-residence Alan Ruiz were on display in the Susan and John Hess Family Gallery and Theater.
Youth Insights Artists Amanata and Amelia talk about their experience working with Alan Ruiz. Photograph by Filip Wolak
After exploring the galleries, guests moved to the Laurie M. Tisch Education Center for refreshments and a presentation in the theater. Alice Pratt Brown Director of the Whitney Museum, Adam Weinberg began the presentations with a warm welcome and congratulations to all of the Youth Insights participants. Short speeches were made by artists-in-residence Alan Ruiz and Rachel Rose, two YI Artists, and two Leaders. YI Artists who worked with Ruiz took inspiration from the Museum building and surrounding neighborhood to create site specific sculptures and performances. YI Artists who worked with Rose learned about video art and the history of editing. Additionally, they researched and created their own experimental films.
Adam Weinberg views experimental films made by Youth Insights Artists. Photograph by Filip Wolak
Next, the room darkened and the films made by YI Artists were screened. Some were humorous, while others focused on issues such as anxiety, fear of growing up, and wealth inequality.
Youth Insights participants pose with Alan Ruiz and Rachel Rose. Photograph by Filip Wolak
At the end of the evening, each YI Artist and Leader was given a Whitney tote bag to commemorate their accomplishments. We celebrated with music and refreshments as we reminisced about the amazing experience we had this semester.
By Anderson and Teja, YI Leaders