Name: Art Force 5

Mission: The Art Force 5 inspires creativity over conflict through impactful community-based art and non-violence workshops. 

Vision: The Art Force 5 will become a pipeline program for those seeking a support structure for both the visual arts and community improvement. Using insight from the emphasis on K-12 physical education, thru college athletics, to professional sports entertainment, the Art Force is designed as an alternative pathway. We imaging a curricular & career model that provide space and support for marginalized identities and career pathways which address community needs.

5 Values: Promote equity, inspire creativity, build community, teach history and sow empathy. 

5 Heroes: Our art-equipped heroes include talents like Graphite (the illustrator), Bristle (the painter), 3-D (the sculptor), Aperture (the photographer) and Runway (the designer). Over two hundred college students have worn the capes-in-reverse (aprons) to help communities address conflict through art. 

5 Offerings (may be paired into one residency):

• Community-based art: Interactive and accessible art projects designed for specific community needs and dialogues. The popular mosaic making programs are made to bring a community together around one concept, idea, or tribute.

• W.E. Draft/March: An annual Women’s History Month initiative which partners with 31 K-12 or colleges to identify, research, and honor 31 women throughout March with a collaborative social media campaign. Partners have included the NFL, Susan B. Anthony House & Museum, and over 200 schools and colleges.

• Heroes Within: Popular younger audience program for schools and museums - superhero construction projects including clothespins action figures, mask-making, cape design.

• Creativity over Conflict (workshops): Designed for college student and professional development trainings. A joyful, creative experience that explores issues of power, privilege, and inclusive conflict resolution. (Designed as a full-day or half-day workshop, with potential art-build options)

• Art Force Futures: Our commitment to redefining our approach to engage in new issues, celebrate upcoming milestones, and partner with people and organizations in new modalities.

Origin: Founded at Alfred University, an institution with a history of both creativity and equality. Through Alfred's New York State College of Ceramics, the program was granted support through SUNY, the State University of New York. In 2022, program director Dan Napolitano left Alfred University to serve as the Chief of Staff at The New School in NYC and his committed to rehoming the program within other institutions and agencies. Art Force 5 has most recently worked in collaboration with with NYS Art Teachers Association’s (NYSATA) Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee.

Contact: artforcefive@gmail.com or 607-382-9150