When Young Artists Thrive: 2025 at Refuge

2025 was a year of growth, access, and deep community impact at Refuge Art School. Together with our students, instructors, and supporters, we expanded programming, increased financial access, and created more real world opportunities for young artists in Lowell. We began the year with our first ever Winter Fundraiser, a retro game night that brought our community together in a new way and set the tone for what was possible. Throughout the year, Refuge artists were also featured in more than five solo and group exhibitions across Lowell, increasing visibility for young artists and reinforcing that their work belongs in public and professional spaces.

This year, we provided $60k in tuition relief, ensuring that cost was not a barrier to participation. %75 of our students received tuition support, allowing more young people to stay engaged, consistent, and committed to their creative practice. Across three semesters, we ran 15 programs, delivered over 4,000 hours of instruction, and served 85 students.

We launched new and returning programs that strengthened both artistic skill-building and creative confidence. We kicked off our Art Stars Residency Program, brought back Build Something, our summer STEAM program for middle schoolers, and continued our Sculpture and Hand-Building classes. We also revived our Portfolio Review Nights, welcoming representatives from some of the strongest art schools in Massachusetts to give students direct feedback and guidance.

2025 also marked the start of two new pilot programs. Our Sewing and Upcycling class and Photo Club expanded how students engage with material, sustainability, and visual storytelling. These pilots opened new pathways for creative exploration and career curiosity. Throughout the year, students also participated in over 10 artist studio visits and guest artist sessions across all semesters. These experiences gave students direct exposure to professional, full-time artists at work, offering insight into real studio practices, career pathways, and the discipline behind sustaining artistic life.

Beyond the classroom, we worked closely with the City of Lowell to bring community canvases and face painting to public events. These collaborations created paid opportunities and hands-on workforce experiences for students at major local gatherings, including the Lowell Folk Festival and the Lowell Kinetic Sculpture Race.

Every milestone this year reflects our commitment to access, mentorship, and student leadership. As we move into the next year, we remain focused on building sustainable pathways for creative youth and continuing to grow alongside the community that makes this work possible.

Thank you for being part of Refuge Art School’s 2025.