New Partnership in the Arts Spotlights Nonprofit’s Impact on Children
SkySong, The ASU Scottsdale Innovation Center has hosted extensive public art and community events, and now it’s putting the work of kids center-stage in a new exhibit.
Kids in Focus proudly presents the second in a series of exhibits celebrating youth creativity on display in the SkySong 3 building from now through July 26.
Kids in Focus is a nonprofit organization providing local youth from underserved communities the chance to see themselves and their world in a new light by equipping them with cameras, pairing them with mentors, and encouraging them to express themselves through photography.
Since 2012, Kids in Focus has been putting cameras in kids’ hands with the guidance and encouragement of adult mentors – many who are avid and professional photographers. Following its training program, these skilled mentors use photography to connect, engage, and encourage life-long creativity. The organization collaborates with local schools, nonprofit community partners, and foster care programs to engage Valley youth through its signature After School Mentoring Program, workshops, and the Grads in Focus Program.
The current SkySong exhibit, which features works by more than 30 young photographers, is the second Kids in Focus exhibit to be featured on site.
Sharon Harper, Chairman and CEO of Plaza Companies, the master developer of SkySong, said supporting the community and spreading the message and impact of Kids in Focus is important to the project team.
“SkySong has always had a focus on being a tremendous community asset and a true focal point for the Scottsdale arts community,” Harper said. “This partnership with Kids in Focus is another example of how the arts can enhance the overall atmosphere and vision for the project. We are proud to support the local community with our new partnership with Kids in Focus. Their focus on youth empowerment through mentorship and art is a perfect fit.”
Plaza Companies is the master developer of SkySong, in partnership with University Realty, the City of Scottsdale and Holualoa Companies.
Ann Alger Piraino, Exhibits Manager with Kids in Focus, welcomed the opportunity to display the children’s artwork in such a unique setting at SkySong.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with the SkySong team to bring this exhibition to life,” she said. “The artwork created by these young people helps them develop life skills and express their creativity, and it is gratifying to show this exhibition in a place with a focus on health and healing.”
Past and current venues for Kids in Focus events include the Creighton University Health Sciences Building, the Phoenix Zoo, Sky Harbor Airport, Arizona Science Center, Children’s Museum of Phoenix, Scottsdale Artists’ School, Western Spirit Museum, and Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall.
For more information on Kids in Focus, visit www.kidsinfocus.org or their social media feeds:
Instagram: @kidsinfocus
LinkedIn: Kids in Focus
Facebook: Kids in Focus