Center for the Arts | LifeScape

Center for the Arts

The LifeScape Center for the Arts is a specialty program which provides access to the creative arts for children and adults. The program provides both visual and performing arts opportunities which are modified to the individual needs of each artist. It is supported through private gifts.

The Center for the Arts aims to:

  • Provide arts opportunities which bolster confidence in the artists and teach them that there is no wrong way to do art
  • Provide visual arts which are created independently and of high caliber
  • Create performing arts experiences which provide a high level of entertainment
  • Provide a platform to educate the community on the importance of recognizing individuals for their abilities rather than their disabilities
  • Provide individualized adaptations to make art accessible to everyone.

Visual Arts

The Center for the Arts has a strong emphasis on individualized creation in the visual arts. The program is able to provide adapted tools and methods and continually works to find accessible and out-of-the-box ways to ensure independence for all of their artists.

Center for the Arts artwork has been featured at:

  • The Washington Pavilion
  • The ArtAbility art show, sponsored by the Sioux Falls Mayor’s Disability Awareness Commission
  • Sioux Falls Chamber Mixers
  • LifeScape fundraising auctions
  • Local businesses that have commissioned pieces
  • South Dakota Legislature
  • South Dakota Arts Council
  • The Kennedy Center’s Very Special Arts (VSA) national and international contests
  • US Department of Education

Performing Arts

The Center for the Arts provides at least one major performing arts opportunity annual which features an all-ability cast of performers. The productions work together to bring together performers from LifeScape as well as individuals within the community who may or may not have a disability. The collaborations have brought tremendous success both on stage and behind the scenes.

Funding

Major funding is provided by The Howard and Louise Kelley Center for the Arts Endowment Fund, established in 2017 with an estate gift to the LifeScape Foundation. Significant funding is also provided by the LifeScape Ambassadors, grants, and other private donors. LifeScape does encourage further gifts to this endowment fund, to help provide meaningful arts experiences to children and adults with disabilities. To learn more, contact the LifeScape Foundation at (605) 444-9800.

Community Collaborators

The Center for the Arts is honored to work with multiple organizations locally and across the state and country to ensure the highest level of programming possible.

Camp Bravo and Camp Create

Both Camp Bravo and Camp Create are retreat opportunities to explore artistic expression.

Camp Bravo

Done in conjunction with the LifeScape Center for the Arts and Black Hills Playhouse. Jr. Camp is designed for children and young adults of all abilities, ages 9-21. Campers will spend the week exploring their performing skills, having an exciting camp experience, and making memories to last a lifetime! Theatre classes offer the opportunity to explore movement, music, and performance – all of which can be adapted to meet the needs of each participant. The week will culminate with a fantastic performance! Along with theatre, campers participate in fun camp activities like horseback riding, wagon rides, archery, pontoon rides, fishing, campfires, and playing games with new friends - all in a completely accessible environment for campers!

Camp Create

Camp Create is a series designed for a shorter camp stay where adult artists can explore visual arts. Camp Create gives individuals the opportunity to work alongside professional artists in exploring their own artistry. The camp culminates in a artist showcase with friends and family invited. Currently the LifeScape Center for the Arts is working in conjunction with the Black Hills Playhouse in developing a Camp Create session to explore theatre with adults!

Interested in Learning More?

For more information on the Center for the Arts at LifeScape, please call 605-444-9631.

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