MFA visual arts candidate Marian Tejada will design and lead workshops for youth in Ottumwa that encourage self-expression, community building, and empowerment. 

This series will be a semester-long journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration, with workshops that aim to foster creative expression and empowerment among the youth in Ottumwa.  The primary goal of this workshop is to empower participants to embrace their unique voices and experiences through the mediums of storytelling and performance. In addition, this series will provide guidance and tools that will enable the group to become self-sustainable and long lasting, fostering a sense of community and continued growth beyond the duration of the program.

Mariana Tejeda has worked with the Arts Share program as a graduate student in dance for two years (she also holds MFA degrees in Theatre and Creative Writing). She will use a dynamic fusion of storytelling and performative outlets as a means for participants to delve into their own narratives, discovering the power of their unique voices and experiences. 

Over the course of the semester, aspiring writers, performers, and curious minds alike will explore various techniques and styles, honing their craft and uncovering the authentic essence of their creative selves. From prose to poetry, monologue to movement, each session will offer a platform for self-expression and growth, fostering a supportive environment where individuality thrives.

Through collaborative exercises, constructive feedback, and immersive performance opportunities, participants will cultivate confidence and resilience, learning to navigate the intricacies of performance art with grace and authenticity. Whether you're penning your first poem or stepping onto the stage for the hundredth time, this workshop is tailored to meet you where you are on your creative journey.