Delta Arts Alliance Launches SPARK Program for Young Artists
Applications Open July 15, 2025
Delta Arts Alliance is excited to announce the launch of its newest youth initiative, the SPARK Program, designed specifically to encourage and support young artists in the Delta region. Applications will open July 15th on the DAA website and are open to all incoming freshmen through seniors (grades 9th–12th) for the 2025–2026 school year.
SPARK, which stands for Students Pursuing Art, Responsibility, and Knowledge, is a yearlong program developed with the creative student in mind. Unlike traditional student leadership programs, SPARK focuses on nurturing artistic talents and providing a safe, supportive space for students—especially those who may be more introverted or underrepresented in typical extracurricular and volunteer spaces.
“The SPARK Program is about giving young artists a place to grow not just creatively, but personally,” said DAA Executive Director, Dawn Ales. “We want to help them develop as individuals and as members of the larger arts community.”
Each year, a limited number of students will be selected through an application and interview process. In its first year, only 10 spots will be available, making it a highly selective opportunity. The program will run from September through June and will include monthly workshops, skill-building sessions with regional artists, community outreach projects, and a final SPARK Art Show to showcase the students' work.
Program highlights include:
Monthly mandatory workshops
Interpersonal and artistic skill development
Community service opportunities tailored to artistic strengths
Individual portfolio development
Access to regional mentors in pottery, design, theater, music, and more
Eligibility for scholarships upon completion
To apply, students must submit a digital application, have a minimum of a 2.5 GPA, two letters of recommendation discussing their artistic abilities or interest in the arts, an example of their artistic work, and complete an interview. All program details and application links will be available starting July 15th. The deadline to apply is August 18, 2025.
After applying, students will be contacted by email to set up an informal interview. Interviews will begin August 20th. Applicants will be notified with decisions by email at the beginning of September.
The first meeting/workshop will be Monday, September 22nd at 5:30 p.m.
For questions or additional information, please contact Delta Arts Alliance at office@deltaartsalliance.org.