Our Mission & Core Values

Wingspan Arts aims to enrich the lives of young people in and around New York City through multi-disciplinary arts education programs both in and out of the classroom. Our programs emphasize the value of theatre, music, visual arts, and dance while also using these art forms as tools for communication, personal growth, and self-expression.

 

Founded in 2001 in response to the lack of arts instruction in public schools, Wingspan Arts’ customized programs have benefited thousands of children across the New York Metro Region. By partnering with professional artist-educators who bring their creative experiences and personalized lessons to the classroom, Wingspan has transformed the traditional teacher-student paradigm into an authenticity-driven, community-based learning environment. Through afterschool, in-school, theatre conservatory, and public programs, Wingspan Arts students are empowered both as individuals and as stewards of the expanding arts community.

 

All children have creative promise; however, many may not have means to access the arts. For these families, Wingspan Arts offers tuition-free opportunities, a scholarship program, and free public events as part of our commitment to reaching as many young people as possible. This helps fulfill our mission of connecting students to the arts, and the arts to life.

 

AUTHENTICITY

Wingspan Arts celebrates Authenticity by partnering with professional artist educators, many of whom are leaders in their artistic fields. By bringing their authentic voices to the classroom, Wingspan students see and experience the transformation arts can have on individuals.

COMMITMENT

We demonstrate the value of commitment by creating accessible pathways to artistic experiences. By means of our scholarship program, tuition-free opportunities, and public events, Wingspan commits to reaching as many young people as possible.

COMMUNITY

As a community-based organization, Wingspan cultivates a warm and nurturing learning environment for all community members. We value opportunities to showcase student growth, celebrate artist success, and collaborate with school leaders and families.

COURAGE

Whether on the stage or in the classroom, Wingspan encourages our artists and students alike to take risks, be brave, and trust themselves.

CREATIVITY

The creative use of the imagination is imperative in building a strong personal foundation. Wingspan fosters the growth of students, teachers, and artists by providing an outlet to engage the creative mind.

REFLECTION

As the arts landscape in New York City is ever changing, Wingspan continually reflects on best education practices, the needs of our school and program communities, and opportunities for growth and learning.

 

Wingspan Arts is a nonprofit 501(c)3 corporation.