girls art collective is a year-long creative cohort for self-identifying girls and non-binary high school students who are ready to deepen their artistic practice while becoming part of a supportive creative community. whether you’re considering art school, curious about creative careers or simply looking for a place where your creativity is taken seriously, girls art collective is the place to make meaningful work, build lasting friendships and discover your artistic voice.
led by artist jess petrylak in partnership with the tioga arts council, this program aims to bring together a small group of young artists who meet weekly throughout the 2026-27 academic year to create, experiment, collaborate and grow. participants will explore a range of artistic materials and ideas while developing technical skill, creative confidence and an understanding of what a life in the arts can look like.
throughout the year, students will …
⭐️ work in a dedicated studio environment weekly
⭐️ learn from visiting artists and arts professionals
⭐️ build a portfolio of original artwork
⭐️ explore exhibitions and contemporary artists
⭐️ participate in collaborative projects + creative discussions
⭐️ present their work in a public exhibition
girls art collective is intentionally designed as a cohort, meaning participants grow together over the course of the year. each session builds upon the last, and relationships formed within the group are just as important as the art itself. participants are expected to attend regularly and make the program priority whenever possible.
applications are required – space is limited. enroll for the 2026-27 academic season here.
projects like girls art collective would not be possible without the support of the community foundation of the southern tier and the tioga arts council.