Business Details
24 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Arts & Youth Development in Woonsocket
Riverzedge Arts is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth through innovative art and design education. Founded in 2002, we provide paid work-based learning opportunities for teens in northern Rhode Island, combining creative entrepreneurship with critical thinking and professional skill development. Our Public Art Studio creates custom installations for public and private spaces, while our Print Studio offers high-quality screen printing services for apparel, stationery, and merchandise. Recognized by the Wallace Foundation and the Presidents Council on the Arts and the Humanities, we emphasize youth leadership, social-emotional growth, and community impact. Participants gain hands-on experience through client-driven projects, mentorship from professional artists, and access to college preparation resources. With a focus on underserved populations, we foster economic and cultural sustainability through arts education. Our multidisciplinary approach includes murals, sculptures, custom furniture, and DIY games, tailored to meet diverse client needs. Over 100% of our participants graduate high school, with many pursuing higher education in art and design fields. We maintain partnerships with local businesses and organizations to expand opportunities for youth. Our programs integrate mental health support and practical resources like our Youth Supply Center, ensuring holistic development. Through exhibitions, community projects, and workforce training, we bridge artistic talent with real-world applications.
Services
Public Art Installations
Screen Printing Services
Youth Workforce Training
Art & Design Education
Custom Murals & Furniture
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- We offer paid work-based learning for teens in art and design.
- Our Public Art Studio creates custom installations for any space.
- Youth gain professional skills through client-driven projects.
- Recognized by national awards for innovative youth programs.
- 100% of participants graduate high school and pursue further education.
Associations and certifications
- Presidents Council on the Arts and the Humanities National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award
- The Wallace Foundation
- MetLife/Afterschool Alliance Afterschool Innovator Award
Services
Public Art Installations
Our Public Art Studio creates custom installations including murals, sculptures, and furniture for public and private spaces. Using innovative design solutions, we transform environments through collaborative art. Clients receive unique, high-quality pieces that reflect their vision and community values.
Screen Printing Services
The Print Studio offers screen printing for apparel, stationery, and merchandise. Projects are completed by hand, ensuring quality for small businesses or large-scale programs. Services include design assistance and studio tours for client engagement.
Youth Workforce Training
Teens earn wages while developing art and design skills through client projects. Programs include mentorship from professionals, college preparation, and social-emotional growth. Participants build portfolios and gain workplace experience in creative industries.
Art & Design Education
We teach critical thinking and artistic techniques through hands-on projects. Youth work on real-world assignments, refining skills in collaborative settings. Curriculum emphasizes problem-solving, leadership, and academic integration for holistic development.
Custom Design Solutions
From concept to execution, our artists deliver tailored designs for events, branding, or decor. Services include custom awards, DIY games, and exhibition pieces. Clients collaborate directly with creators to ensure unique, impactful results.
People
Kristen Williams
Executive Director
Kristen Williams, PhD, leads Riverzedge Arts with expertise in theater, English, and American Studies. Her background in academia and DIY arts informs her commitment to youth empowerment through creativity. She fosters community-driven projects and sustainable practices.
Questions
What programs does Riverzedge Arts offer for teens?
We provide paid work-based learning in art, design, and public projects, focusing on skill development, mentorship, and college preparation for youth aged 14-18.
Can I request custom public art installations?
Yes, our Public Art Studio creates murals, sculptures, and custom furniture for any space, blending creativity with client needs.
Do you offer screen printing services for businesses?
Yes, our Print Studio produces custom apparel, stationery, and merchandise with hand-printing techniques for local and national clients.
How does Riverzedge support youth education?
We provide college application help, FAFSA support, and partnerships with social services to ensure academic and career success for participants.
Are there opportunities for community involvement?
Yes, we collaborate with local organizations on projects and offer volunteer opportunities for artists, mentors, and supporters.
Reviews (1)
Henna By Heather
Apr 05, 2023
Report
It was my pleasure to do a henna workshop for the enthusiastic and talented students at Riverzedge Arts. Their staff photographer sent me photos of my class before I even got home, confirming that they had the proper model releases to be able to do so and hadn't taken photos of anyone who didn't want them taken. It was such a wonderful surprise to get such excellent photos. They also sent me home with two tote bags designed and printed in house, one of which all the students in the workshop signed in henna : What a great experience. Thanks for having me, Riverzedge!