Arts for Learning Indiana Adds Three Dynamic Artists to Roster

Contact: Jessica Dunson
Marketing & Communications Specialist
Arts for Learning Indiana
[email protected]
(317) 925-4043 ext. 120

March 23, 2021
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Arts for Learning Indiana is proud to announce the addition of three artists to our roster of teaching artists who will provide arts education workshops, residencies, and performances to Indiana youth in classrooms and communities throughout the state. Each year, Arts for Learning Indiana seeks professional artists locally and nationally to join our roster of teaching artists. These three new artists, 2 local and 1 out-of-state, will build upon our unique program offerings through their individual artforms.

The artists joining our roster include:

• Allison Victoria (Indianapolis): A local singer, songwriter, emcee, and self-taught musician. Allison’s style ranges from Soul, Hip-Hop, R&B, Folk, Gospel, Pop, and Jazz.
  
• Beatriz Vasquez (Indianapolis): A master contemporary papercutting artist inspired by Papel Picado, a Mexican Folk Art.
  
• Sherry Norfolk (St. Louis): An award-winning storyteller, author, and teaching artist with The Kennedy Center, Wolf Trap, and Young Audiences.

“This cohort is truly indicative of the vibrancy and energy present in the Indianapolis arts community” said Scott Janz, Director of Artist Programs. “Allison Victoria and Beatriz Vasquez are self-taught, innovative, mold-breaking artists. Both serve as wonderful role models for our youth on the different paths one can take to find their own truth, place and space in community, through artistic expression. Additionally, Sherry Norfolk, joining us from the St. Louis affiliate Springboard to Learning, brings a wealth of wisdom, perspective, and experience to our roster. Truly all three of these artists bring something inspiring to bolster our already incredible, dynamic, and creative roster.”  

In February, Victoria, Vasquez, and Norfolk began training and professional development with members of our roster and Teaching Advisory Group (TAG). Additionally, the artists have been paired with a member of TAG for mentorship in developing their arts integrated education program. The training will culminate with a pilot of their program in their TAG mentor’s classroom this spring. Victoria, Vasquez, and Norfolk will be available for booking starting July 1, 2021 for the 2021-2022 school year.

About Arts for Learning Indiana: Since 1961, Arts for Learning Indiana has been the premier provider of arts education programs for youth across Indiana. Their programs empower youth and expand their learning through creative arts experiences. Arts for Learning employs more than 60 teaching artists who provide performances, workshops, and residencies to schools, libraries, parks, and community organizations to reach nearly 40,000 youth every year.

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