When a typical art project just isn't enough and there's a desire to explore different ways to be creative, try metal smithing, wood turning, 3D printing or First Nations art and design.
The Two Rivers Gallery offers the MakerLab Youth Immersion program for people between 15 and 20, which is a nine-month self-guided endeavor where participants and mentors come together for an intense hands-on learning experience.
This program follows the success of the children's MakerLab program for nine to 13 year olds and the Open Make night, attended by people of all ages who work on projects like electronics, wood turning, carving, soddering, or making jewelry.
"There's a new program that will start in September but we're recruiting for it now," said Carolyn Holmes, director of public programs at the Two Rivers Gallery.
The deadline is July 15.
"So we need to find the best 12 people in Prince George that this will make a difference in their lives."
There will be a two-week training period provided by mentors so participants can learn how to use available equipment, then mentors will be there as guides if needed but the program is self-directed, allowing for a full exploration into the creative process.
"After learning a few things - maybe I've learned metal smithing, some wood turning, and some carving and I think 'nope, all my interest is in 3D printing', then I put all my focus in that area and the mentor will hang around, visit me and work with me to build up my skills," said Holmes.
The Youth Immersion program will take place every Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. but those in the program will also have MakerLab memberships so once skills are learned they work on their own.
"We're empowering you, training you how to use this awesome equipment and then you come in and do whatever you want on it," said Holmes.
"And I don't think that happens very often in high school, you know?"
One of the keys to this project is that out of the 12 positions available, six are specifically kept for those who declare themselves to be aboriginal.
"So we are looking for aboriginal youth to come and say 'oh, this is what I want to do and I need something more in my life'," said Holmes, who thinks this could be a good stepping-off point for people who are looking for a career path.
"I think someone can find their niche and it's going to be something they look back at and say when I was at Two Rivers Gallery in the MakerLab Youth Immersion program that was when I decided I knew what to do with my life."
The MakerLab Youth Immersion program is subsidized by the BC Arts Council's Youth Engagement Program and Two Rivers Gallery.
Partial and full scholarships are available so there are no barriers to access the program.
For more information email: carolyn@tworiversgallery.ca.
