The Pelham Art Center is proud to continue its teen programming this fall with the return of Teen Open Studio and Teen Artist Council, along with the addition of four new fall interns.

Pelham Art Center’s teen programming provides local high school students with opportunities to build connections, gain hands-on experience in the arts, develop community-building skills, and grow their creativity. 

“Each year, it’s exciting to see teens engage with programming designed specifically for them. At Pelham Art Center, we believe that introducing young people to art—and encouraging them to see themselves as artists—is a lifelong endeavor, and one we take very seriously,” reflected Nancy Mazzei, Interim Executive Director, Pelham Art Center. “One way we measure the impact of this work is through applications to our teen internship program, which serves as an important gateway to our ongoing teen programming. This year, we received a record-breaking number of applications, reinforcing that we are listening to our teen audience and thoughtfully developing programming that responds to their interests, creativity, and needs.”

Meet Our 2026 Fall Interns!

The Pelham Art Center is excited to welcome four new interns this fall: Rachel Roberts, Lizzie Cabrera, Jay Kurland, and Gabriel Pena.

The Fall Internship Program offers students an opportunity to gain hands-on work experience, develop valuable professional skills, and contribute to a community-based nonprofit art center. Interns will support program implementation, special events, research, administration, and more.

Teen Open Studio Is Back!

Teen Open Studio returns on Friday, October 9, from 3:30–5:30 PM. The program is completely free, and all materials are provided. Everyone is welcome! Teen Open Studio will take place on October 9, October 23, November 6, November 20, December 4, and December 18.

Teen Open Studio offers a meaningful opportunity to relax, create, and connect with peers and professional artists. The Pelham Art Center provides art materials, guidance, and a safe and welcoming space for teens to pursue their artistic interests.

Staff members are available to introduce participants to new techniques, materials, and creative projects. Teens have used Open Studio time to work on independent projects for AP portfolios and college applications, or simply to free-create and explore their creativity in the Pelham Art Center studios.

Teen Artist Council Meetings Return

The Teen Artist Council will return on Saturday, October 24, from 1–3 PM. Teens interested in joining are encouraged to sign up and get involved.

The Teen Artist Council brings together young people interested in developing and creating teen-centered art programs. Members will have opportunities to help curate an annual gallery exhibition at the Pelham Art Center and lead select public programs.

The Council provides a space for teens interested in art to communicate, collaborate, learn, and enjoy the process of creative expression. The upcoming meetings will take place on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 1–3 PM, Saturday, November 28, 2026, from 1–3 PM, and Saturday, December 5, 2026, from 1–3 PM.

Pelham Pride and PAC Teens Events

The Pelham Art Center is proud to team up with Pelham Pride to host welcoming and creative events for teens throughout the year. Through this collaboration, the organizations hope to bring additional voices into the community while creating opportunities for young people to learn about safety, mental health, and creative expression.

The first collaboration with Pelham Pride will be a Junk Journal event on October 23.

Additional dates and teen programming will be announced through the Pelham Art Center and PAC Teens social media channels, including Instagram @pelhamartcenter and @pacteens, as well as the Pelham Art Center Facebook page, website, and email newsletters.

Community members are encouraged to stay tuned and mark their calendars for everything the Pelham Art Center has in store this fall.

Editor’s note: This press release was provided by the Pelham Art Center. The Pelham Examiner publishes press releases in the form received as a service to the community.