What is Studio 345?

Founded in 2012 by the Arts & Science Council, Studio 345 was started to promote youth arts education. The program transitioned into the Arts+ family in 2020.

Through Studio 345, Arts+ carries out its mission to make high-quality arts education accessible to all Charlotteans.

Providing unique experiences for high school students in Charlotte-Mecklenburg schools, Studio 345 fosters a sense of belonging and interconnectedness and provides an avenue for students to build social capital. Taught and mentored by professional working artists who are part of the Charlotte artist community, students gain invaluable experiences enabling them to become creative risk-takers and craftspeople while growing emotionally, intellectually, and artistically.

A Proven Model

Inspired by Bill Strickland’s belief that environment shapes behavior, classes are held in contemporary studios and equipped with state-of-the-art technology and complemented with experiences in the community, workplace, and higher education. Since 1972, Manchester Bidwell, founded by Strickland, has attracted national attention for its youth development program.

Studio 345 is a free youth development program that uses Digital Photography, Digital Media Arts, and Multimedia Design to educate and inspire students to stay in school, graduate, and pursue goals beyond high school.

Are You Eligible?

All Charlotte-Mecklenburg County School students in Grades 9-12 with an interest in digital media and the arts are welcome to enroll. Classes are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Are You Interested in Bringing Your Students to Studio 345?

Studio 345 offers field trips through the Arts and Science Council. Middle and high school students are invited to experience two Studio 345 courses, Digital Photography and Screen Printing. Each experience will include a light writing course and a screen printing course taught by professional teaching artists. Learn more and book here.

Have More Questions?

Contact Angela Grauel at agrauel@artsplus.org for general information about Studio 345 or details about enrollment.

Click the video below for a sneak peek into Studio 345.