Articipate: The New Art Education
By Kathryn Auchter

The rapid decline of school administered art programs is a misfortune felt nationwide.  However, one organization in Salida County has stepped up to fill this void in the education system.  Articipate is dedicated to fostering the artistic development of the Salida youth, and this organization couldn’t have formed at a more appropriate time.  After their first year, Articipate has made a huge impact within their community.

Articipate aims to promote art education in two main ways.  The first of which includes offering in-house programs.  The Little River Tribe, in conjunction with the Salida Boys and Girls Club, is one example of the programs offered by Articipate.  This eight-week program offers an engaging cultural experience.  The organization is also working to create a marimba and drum ensemble in the near future.

This organization also promotes art education externally through their work with local artists.  Articipate recruits professional artists who have developed accompanying programs that relate to their area of expertise.  These artists are then paired with community groups and local schools to create interactive programs.  For instance, Leon Little Bird is an Articipate artist who gives a presentation on the Native American history in Colorado through musical performance.  Articipate has three other artists including Jennifer Dempsey, the founder of the Salida Circus, the Bones Solo Ensemble, and Bill Donavan, an interactive storyteller.

The benefits of this organization are two-fold.  Not only do the students in Salida County benefit from art programming in their community, but local artists are also able to use this as an employment opportunity.  Although there are currently only four Articipate artists, the organization eventually hopes to employ 12 working artists, hosting multiple themes for various age ranges.