The Arts
Overview

New York Edge was founded on the belief that the arts are a powerful agent of change and opportunity. The mission of the New York Edge Arts Program is to provide students with intellectually informed, hands-on instruction in the practice of an array of performing and visual arts within the context of an afterschool program.

Through our arts programs we aim to foster creativity, self-confidence and self-discipline. The goal of each program is to inspire curiosity through careful observation and artistic exploration. Our performing and visual arts curriculum focuses on developmental consideration for each grade level (K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12) and is built upon the ideas of progressive learning, leadership, social emotional learning and performance and presentation. Students enjoy the opportunity to perform and showcase their work for family, friends, and the community at special events such as Art Day, Girl Redesigned, Step Competition, and New York Edge’s signature event – the Spring Arts Showcase.

 

Art Day

Art Day is part of the New York Edge Art Department’s educational series for New York Edge students designed to build self-confidence and empowerment. Throughout the day students will learn that art has the power to transform perceptions of identity and reality. This is an opportunity to use artistic expression to explore difficult social situations and work collaboratively to find solutions.

Step Competition

It’s more than rhythm. It’s more than the dancing. It’s more than the music. It’s stepping!
These step routines are aimed at promoting physical health and teamwork through stepping. This competition gives New York Edge students the opportunity to showcase their talent through the art of stepping while enjoying a fun and safe environment. Our activity specialists teach the fundamentals of stepping through teamwork, healthy competition, and good sportsmanship. Regardless of the participants’ level of experience, they are able to step in the New York program to improve their technical proficiency and fundamental elements.

Girl Redesigned

Girl Redesigned is a two-part educational series for New York Edge students designed to build self-confidence and empowerment. Through this series of lessons, students will learn that art has the power to transform perceptions of identity and reality. This is an opportunity to use artistic expression to explore difficult social situations and work collaboratively to find solutions. It is the culmination and performance following Art Day.

Spring Arts Showcase

The event showcases a variety of talent, ranging from dancing and singing to drawings and paintings. The performance portion of the Spring Showcase features 12-14 performances; only these acts from over 100 of the New York Edge schools that can audition will be selected to perform at the showcase. Acts range from musical theater performances, a cappella chorus, dramatic works, video presentation, various dance styles, step, drumline and more. The visual arts gallery displays more than 200 pieces of artwork from more than 250 students ranging from grades K-12 from various schools throughout New York!

Performing arts activities include:
Dance (ballet, modern/contemporary, jazz, ballroom, hip-hop, African, Latin, tap)
Theater/Musical Theater
Music (general, instrumental, chorus, digital production, drumline/marching band)
Step

Cheerleading 
Drama
Yoga

Visual arts and character education activities include:
Studio Art (painting, drawing, sculpture, collage, printmaking)
Digital Media
Photography
Filmmaking
Comic Illustration
Fashion Design