The Coconut Grove Arts Festival (CGAF) is known for bringing together artists, collectors, and enthusiasts for a weekend of creativity and inspiration. But in recent years, CGAF has added an exciting new dimension to its offerings with the introduction of the Young Collectors Club, a program designed to introduce children to the world of art collecting in an engaging and educational way.
Cultivating a Love for Art
“The Young Collectors Club is more than just a program – it’s a movement to nurture the next generation of art lovers and supporters,” says CGAF Chairman of the Board David Hill, Jr. Aimed at children aged 6-12, the initiative provides a hands-on opportunity to explore art in an interactive, approachable, and fun environment.
“By focusing on the joy of discovering and owning art, the program helps young participants develop a deeper appreciation for creativity and craftsmanship.”
The Young Collectors Experience
At the heart of the Young Collectors Club is a unique opportunity for children to step into the exciting world of art collecting. Within a designated tent on the grounds of the Coconut Grove Arts Festival each February, children are invited to explore a collection of small, original artworks donated by artists, all priced at an accessible $5. This initiative ensures that young participants can make their first-ever art purchase independently – without parents by their side – creating a truly empowering experience.
According to CGAF Executive Director Camille Marchese, “The program encourages children to choose and pay for a piece of art on their own, fostering a sense of ownership and pride. This simple yet impactful act becomes a lasting memory – marking the moment they become an “art collector” for the first time.”
By offering affordable, original art in a dedicated space, the Young Collectors Club introduces the joy of art patronage early, nurturing creativity and a lifelong appreciation for the arts. Noting that this experience underscores the belief that everyone can be an art collector – she emphasizes it’s never too early to start!
Building Lifelong Connections to Art
“Art collecting is not just about owning art, it’s about building a lifelong connection to creativity and culture,” adds Marchese. “With the Young Collectors Club, we want to plant the seed of art appreciation early and give kids the tools to see themselves as part of the art community.”
She harkens back to her own experience when the world of art opened up to her for the very first time. “One of the reasons why I have this job today is because my mother took me to an art festival when I was eight years old and let me buy something all my own,” she recalls.
“I believe that as much as we need young artists, we also need young collectors,” she added. “By fostering an early appreciation for art and giving young people the confidence to begin their collecting journey, CGAF is laying the groundwork for a future where art remains a vital part of our lives and communities.”
A Community-Driven Initiative
At the heart of the Coconut Grove Arts Festival is a board of directors and management team that uppholds a strong commitment to its own community, through support of arts education and other programs across Miami Dade County. CGAF is intent on raising the organization’s profile right here at home, by offering multiple programs including:
- Emerging Artist Program
- Young Collector’s Club
- Young Artist student scholarship programs.
- Visiting Artists Program
“We’re truly committed to empowering the next generation of artists within our community,” adds Hill. CGAF’s scholarship programs are designed to provide financial support and recognition to talented young artists who are pursuing higher education..
So, as you stroll through this coming year’s Coconut Grove Arts Festival, Feb. 15-17, 2025, be sure to bring your children by the Young Collectors Club and watch the next generation of art enthusiasts take their first steps into a lifelong passion. Because, as the festival reminds us, art is for everyone – and every great collector starts somewhere.
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