Frequently Asked Question
What is Artsbridge? Artsbridge is a new non-profit organization based just outside of Boston, Massachusetts in the USA. Our purpose is to utilize the art-making process to foster creative vision, empathy, and skills in communication, teamwork, project management, conflict resolution and leadership.
How is Artsbridge different from other programs that bring Israeli and Palestinian youth together? It is different in that any dialogue held is in direct association with the art-making process. Students are guided through this process, and learn how to use their creative talents for positive effect and empowerment. Students create joint art projects and discuss their personal experience of the process. The emphasis throughout the Development program is on identifying and expressing students’ creative experiences with the goal of achieving a new understanding of the past and the future while honoring the experience of the other.
Is Artsbridge only a summer program? Artsbridge is not only a summer program. Artsbirdge is a yearlong program. The three-week summer development program is for teens between ages 15 and 18 and is just one component and is meant to train these teens in the leadership skills they will need to become mentors to younger students. The second component involves younger students as well. This yearlong component of Artsbridge will take place at our Host Sites in Israel and the Palestinian Territories. It is meant to give our older students the opportunity to carry on their growth, learning and leadership development, while giving younger students the opportunity to become accustomed to our methods and eventually take part in our summer development program.
How are students selected? Students are selected through an application process. Interested students need to complete the application and submit answers to a series of short essay questions. The application is available on our website and is also available through our Host Sites in Israel and the West Bank.
Is artistic expression and ability necessary to participate in Artsbridge? Artistic experience and ability are not requirements. However, applicants need to demonstrate an interest in the creative process in order to be considered a strong candidate.
What do the summer development program participants do with their summer experience? The students will return to Israel and the West Bank to act as mentors and role models for participants in our year round programming.
Is Artsbridge affiliated with any governmental agency? Artsbridge has no affiliation with any governmental agency in Israel, the Palestinian Territories or the United States.
Does Artsbridge have a political agenda? Artsbridge does not have a political agenda. We aim to honor the experience of all participants while we cultivate the ability to envision a situation markedly different than the current reality.
How do I get involved? Artsbridge is looking for individuals with experience in counseling, art, and speaking Hebrew and Arabic. There is also a great need for financial support for our programs so we can continue the success of our inaugural year.
How much does it cost to sponsor a student? The total cost for one student to participate in Artsbridge for the duration of our year round programming, including out three-week summer development program is $5,000. This cost accounts for room, board, airfare, visa expenses, and supplies.
Has Artsbridge been certified as a 501(c)3 organization? Yes
As a sponsor, how will Artsbirdge keep me informed? Sponsors will be added to the Artsbridge mailing list and receive periodic updates and reports. Our preference is to keep you informed by email. Sponsors will also be given limited access to our online forums between the campers during the year.
How do I make a donation to Artsbridge? Donations should be made by check and mailed to Artsdbridge Institute, P.O. Box 113, Swampscott, MA 01907, USA, or made online. All amounts are welcome.
