Breaking Down Barriers -- An Inspiring Day

Young Audiences of Western New York hosted our 4th annual conference featuring artists and educators on May 11 at Ani DiFranco’s Babeville.  The conference explores outstanding work done with young people who have special needs or are at risk of educational failure.  This year our board of directors and staff named the conference to honor Patricia Cotsen, a board member who had served the organization for 18 years and passed in January.  She was a long time docent for the Albright Knox Art Gallery and the Darwin Martin - Frank Lloyd Wright House.  Among many other services to the community, she was instrumental in the rehabilitation of a massive church in one of Buffalo’s most challenged neighborhoods into a state of the art charter school.  

Executive Director, Cynnie Gaasch welcomed the 110 attendees of the conference, inviting everyone in attendance to accept the challenge to continue Patty’s commitment to young people and the arts, and make their own impact, around the world.  Cynnie framed the day:

“We are here today because the arts can break down barriers of limitations, bigotry, and abilities.  Working in the arts can open doors, and provides opportunities for learning to us all.  Young and old may be challenged, learn and find success.  In its highest forms, we may experience beauty, true diversity, and opportunities for learning.”

This year’s attendees represented a diverse array of students, artists, and industry professionals in the fields of arts education and human services. With students attending from six of the region’s universities and professionals traveling from as far away as Brockport, Fredonia, and Albany, we are sure that our results will be far reaching. Representatives from two Buffalo art galleries, two museums, twelve schools, and eight  of the regions human services organizations were also in attendance.

2010 also boasted an exciting addition to our roster of presenters with the inclusion of students from Heritage Centers After School Program who had participated in the A Rhythm Runs Through It residency. Students, staff members, and teaching artists discussed the program’s successes in an interactive presentation that was highly admired by its participants.

Some of our favorite quotes in the conference evaluations included:

  • I found: “Inspiration and hope! Recognition in the power of art & allowing student voices to shine!”
  • I will use this experience to: “Be a facilitator and let the students guide the journey.”
  • “The hands-on workshops reenergize me!”
  • I found: “Ideas for fostering creativity in students who are introverts or have a low sense of self.”
  • I will use this experience to: “Inspire teachers I influence to use their imagination to help students find their own voice.”

Breaking Down Barriers: 4th Annual Patricia Cotsen Arts Abilities Conference from Young Audiences on Vimeo.