Josh Buss has been at City Arts Center for four years. He started as a student, volunteer and instructor before becoming Education Director two years ago. Josh is also involved with the local organizations like Oklahoma Art Education Association and Oklahoma Visual Art Coalition.
Name of Organization:
City Arts Center
3000 General Pershing Blvd.,
Oklahoma City, Ok 73107
405.951.0000
cityartscenter.org
Describe the mission of your non-profit:
The City Arts Center encourages artistic expression in all its forms through education and exhibitions. We endeavor to instill in the public a lifetime appreciation of the arts and enthusiasm for creative practice.
How does it impact families and children, whether locally or elsewhere?
City Arts Center offers a variety of arts based youth camps during all school breaks as well as free workshops for families and school tours. We also provide need based scholarships for all camps. All of our programs focus on providing art education of the highest quality.
What drives you to make this non-profit a success?
The desire to build community and help art students of all ages accomplish their personal goals.
What success stories or accomplishments has this non-profit achieved?
In 2010 we collaborated with NewView Oklahoma to bring 30 blind and visually impaired youth and 30 sighted “buddies” to City Arts Center for one week of dance, drama and hands on art instruction. We were thrilled to help expose the children to brand new experiences that made their world a little larger.
How can families and children help this non-profit?
By participating in our programs and providing us with feedback.
What led you to work for this nonprofit?
My interactions with the wonderful group of people who make City Arts Center such a special place. The staff, students, instructors and volunteers really feel like an extended family.
What was your best day so far?
The last day of my first summer leading camps. I felt privileged to have witnessed the connections built between campers around a shared love of art.
