Studio 345: Where Students Gain Lifelong Skills and Friendships
Studio 345 is a free program, funded by Mecklenburg County, that provides after-school workshops and summer camps for students from county-area high schools, charter schools, early colleges, and home schools. In the program, students learn digital photography, digital media arts, music production, and multimedia design from some of the most accomplished instructors in the region.
Nicole Driscoll, an instructor of photography and videography who has taught with Studio for 12 years, has had work displayed in many festivals and galleries. Music production is taught by Jason Jones, otherwise known as Jason Jet of Grindhaus Studios, and Scott Slagle of Asylum Digital Recording and Mixing.
"They are not only instructors: they are mentors. They really invest the time, skills, and energy needed to help the students," says Director of Studio 345 Angela Grauel. Studio 345 students gain a high-quality, free arts education alongside mentorship and life coaching. "Instructors help students with college choices and recommendation letters, providing not only instruction in a new skill but a a safe, encouraging environment," Angela says. Studio 345 is not just a chance for students to unleash their creativity. It is a place for them to gain invaluable experience that they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.
At Studio 345, students feel empowered and confident as they find their voices through art. Instructors are a part of this growth, noting how it is often the most impactful part of their work. "Watching a student go from shy and disengaged to presenting their work is a powerful reminder of how transformative arts education can be," Angela remarks. Studio 345 students often go on to pursue art degrees and careers, including Savaan Wallace, who participated as a student and returned as an instructor after graduating from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). One student who took last year’s Mixed Media class stepped into Studio 345 planning to attend NC State for Engineering. However, when he left, he declared, “I had no idea you could make a career from art!” and changed his major to art. Another student, Omavi Minder, better known as Mavi, became a prominent rapper after getting his start in Studio 345. For many students, Studio 345 has led to the discovering of untapped creative potential and the transformation of lives.
Studio 345 is open all year to students, with Summer at Studio 345 currently in session. Afterschool programs at Studio 345 resume in September. In the coming years, new space will be available for performance and recording at the Arts+ Community Campus, opening many more doors for students. "Studio 345 brings together students who may have never crossed paths, from very different social, economic, and cultural backgrounds," says Angela. "They make art together! They make friends!"