Hello, students and families. On this page, you will find some current art opportunities for middle school students in the DOE and in NYC.
Summer Arts Institute
Admission to the Summer Arts Institute is by application and audition. Students may apply and audition for only ONE studio.
Student Application Deadline: February 26, 2025
Virtual Audition Submission Deadline: March 2, 2025
For More Information and to Apply Visit:
https://tinyurl.com/SummerArtsInstitute2025
Questions?: Please e-mail summerartsinstitute@schools.nyc.gov
Summer Arts Institute is a free, four-week arts program for New York City Public School students entering grades 8 through 12 in Fall 2025 (students currently in grades 7 through 11). This intensive program is held at Frank Sinatra School of the Arts in Astoria, Queens. Summer Arts Institute is administered by the NYCDOE’s Office of Arts and Special Projects.
Program Dates: July 7 – August 1, 2025
Students can major in dance, theater, instrumental music, orchestral strings, vocal music, film, or visual arts. The program is designed for students at an intermediate or advanced level of study in their discipline. The daily schedule includes studio work and experiences with professional artists. In the studios, students develop and improve their technical skills and creative expression in their art form. Time is dedicated to rehearsals, attending professional performances, visiting arts venues and exploring careers. The Institute culminates with an exhibition and performance showcasing the students’ work.
General list of NYC arts programs for teens (some may be high school only) -
https://smartready.wordpress.com/resources-for-art-ready-students/272-2/
High School Admissions and Portfolio/Audition Requirements
If you are looking to apply to an arts high school, you may be required to submit a portfolio. View this site, and scroll down to "Visual Arts" to view what high schools require a portfolio and for directions. If you are in 6th or 7th grade, it is never too early to start preparing artworks for your portfolio!
https://www.schools.nyc.gov/enrollment/enroll-grade-by-grade/high-school/high-school-auditions
These portfolio prep programs (not a requirement) have some examples of what a portfolio may look like on their websites: