This month the CFOC Nonprofit Spotlight features CANO’s Arts Education Program.

A year into the pandemic, CANO saw renewed enthusiasm for self-care and the arts through an increase in requests for more arts education classes and workshops. While the Summer Arts Program for kids has always been popular, suddenly residents, including new residents entering Otsego & Delaware County during the pandemic, were popping by CANO’s Art Studio unannounced to ask about classes.

In Fall 2022, artist Diana Cozzens volunteered to help organize the Art Studio’s ceramic supplies and materials and host bowl-painting parties for the Chili Bowl Cook-Off & Fundraiser. Kept alive by different artists over the years, such as former CANO Board President, Annie Kuhn, and current Board Member, Morgan Doyle, the arts education program never had an opportunity to flourish without proper funding and staff.

With support from the Community Foundation of Otsego County, CANO was able to grow their arts education program this past summer, purchasing art supplies to increase class offerings and bringing Diana Cozzens on as part-time arts education coordinator. Several new classes, like Painting with Cold Wax and Resonant Watercolor, as well as After School Programs for kids and teens, were added in the fall.

By Spring 2024, the Art Studio will triple the classes formerly available and increase marketing efforts to reach a wider audience. Many local artists have expressed interest in teaching. Expanding affordable arts education in Oneonta and Otsego County is important for retaining young couples, families, and retirees who want to live in an area rich in arts and culture.

“Learning a new skill, artistic self-expression, and making art in a group setting is life-enriching. The Art Studio provides residents and visitors of all ages and skill sets opportunities for self-growth and community building in a supportive, inclusive environment,” said CANO Executive Director, Hope Von Stengel.

For more information about CANO’s Art Education Program, contact Diana Cozzens at art-education@canoneonta.org or visit CANO’s website canoneonta.org.

Content provided by the Community Art Network of Oneonta (CANO).