Engine’s Youth Programs inspire the next generation through art, design, and education. We focus on partnerships and community connection to foster essential skills through experiential and hands-on learning through the arts.
Compass Project
The Compass Project is our primary youth program, offered in partnership with the Biddeford School Department and the Alternative Pathways Program. With boat building as the vessel, we teach important STEM skills, build confidence, and connect our youth with community and civic responsibility through the arts. We partner with local boat builder Chase Small Craft for boat kits, and with the Landing School to connect our students with opportunities beyond our program.
Youth Exhibitions
Engine facilitiates opportunities for Youth inspired and youth led exhibitions which is important for equity, resiliency, and empowerment for our next generation. Recent exhibitions have included work by APEX Youth Connection participants, Biddeford Elementary and Intermediate Schools, the Coastal Healthy Communities Youth Art Competition, and our annual RUMPUS art show for all ages.
Art Fabulous
Art Fabulous was a youth led activity program emerging from a partnership between Forging Commons, Art Van, and the City of Biddeford to serve youth in the Bacon Street neighborhood in Biddeford. These free Monday afternoon art sessions take place seasonally at the HUB.
STEAM Sundays with Bike Part Art & Biddeford Community Gardens
Free intergenerational art at Williams Court Park. Presented in partnership with Bike Part Art and Biddeford Community Gardens. Participants learn about pollinators, the environment, and creative climate change strategies in fun ways.
Field Trips & Studio and Shop Visits
Engine facilitates a number of educational field trips, studio, and shop visits for folks of all ages across York Count and beyond. Bring your group of all ages to connect with the creative economy, be inspired by artists and makers, learn about how art is created in your community, and more. Themes include public art, boat building, fiber arts and textile industry, analog photography, history and heritage, and more.
Get in touch with Jess Muise via email at director@feedtheengine.org for more information on bringing arts programs to the youth you serve.
The safety of our staff, volunteers and community is our primary concern. Please make sure you review our policies prior to attending one of our programs.