My Experience at Youth Arts Action North: Jordan

I have always loved art, but for many years I lost the ambition that drove my creativity. When I started here at Antyx, I knew a little about their values, mission, and vision, giving me a sense of what to anticipate. I did not expect how this opportunity would affect me and then reflect on this and how impactful YAAN was for the youth. What Noor does with her understanding of art and methodology of teaching essential skills used in various art practices, with the inclusion of providing a safe space for the youth to engage and delve into deeper meaning into the context of their art projects; it gives to the purpose of YAAN and the character of Noor.  

I had the opportunity to work on a canvas painting art project with the youth that related to their own personal conception of mental wellness and awareness issues giving the youth the prospect of looking deep within themselves to create a meaningful piece of art. With the guidance of Noor, the youth made artwork nothing less than masterpieces that exemplified their creativity, skill, and ability to recognize essential feelings and issues. The environment of Youth Action Arts was upbeat and fun, with the youth taking the responsibility of creating and finishing their art projects while providing each other with feedback and encouragement.  

YAAN has also crafted other fascinating projects such as sculptures, murals, music-related projects, videos, and multimedia art exhibitions; I have seen some of these but unfortunately did not get a chance to work on them. All these projects are driven and inspired the mind of the youth, giving them a personal touch and prestige of accomplishing a meaningful task. The nature of team building and with a creative leader such as Noor makes this program entertaining and a great learning experience for the youth. Youth have stated that Youth Arts Action has provided a safe environment and makes them feel empowered by feeling more confident while finding strengths they did not know they had. Overall, I had a fantastic experience: I had a great time and saw the potential of how beneficial this program is to youth development. Great work!