August 19, 2025
By Kathy Chouteau
The Richmond Art Center (RAC) is creating a “third space for creative minds” with a free, afterschool “Art Club” for teens 13 to 18 years old.
The Art Club will meet at the RAC Wednesdays from 3:30-6:30 p.m. starting Sept. 10 through Nov. 19. The program, made possible through support from the Tah Dah Foundation, has the capacity for 15 students.
“Art Club combines structured instruction with open studio time,” said RAC Community Engagement Director Amy Spencer. “Participants can work independently with a wide range of materials or join instructor-led sessions exploring techniques such as block printing, collage and basic weaving.”
During their Art Club sessions, teens can dive in and explore new media, such as paint, paper, printmaking supplies, fabric, yarn, glue, beads and other materials, according to the RAC.
As Spencer alluded, participants can enjoy open-studio time during the sessions, and can use provided materials to create and innovate on their own. Also available will be an optional Activity Hour where teens can learn a new medium with the guidance of a professional teaching artist.
The after school “Art Club” “was created in response to the lack of “third spaces” in Richmond. Spencer described them as “safe, welcoming environments outside of home and school where teens can connect and build community.”
She shared that the program was developed by RAC Youth Programs Manager Annaliese Ruano, who works closely with Richmond elementary and high school students on initiatives such as Summer Art Camp, Summer Intensive Classes for Teens and Youth Art Tours.
“We hope Art Club gives Richmond teens a space to be creative, connect with peers and explore art, either on their own or with guidance from a teaching artist. More than artmaking, it’s about community, self-expression, and a place to belong after school,” said Spencer.
Click here to register for the Art Club. The Richmond Art Center is located at 2540 Barrett Ave. in Richmond. Questions? Contact (510) 620-6772 or info@richmondartcenter.org
