Reach to Teach
Immersed in the Arts is our flagship program for Richmond Grade 6 and 7 students. Held on site at our own Arts Conservatory in partnership with local schools, it gives young people hands-on experience with real materials, real techniques and real encouragement.
Young artists come to us
Reach to Teach puts paintbrushes, clay and cameras into the hands of Richmond students who might not otherwise get the chance. The classes are held on site at our own Arts Conservatory, in partnership with local schools, so the students come to us. Each five-month session welcomes about 60 young people, two full classes from two different schools, to work alongside practising artists.
We focus on Grade 6 and 7 students, and especially on families who cannot afford to enrol their children in extracurricular arts. The program is one of the clearest expressions of our mission, that access to the arts should not depend on where you live or what you can afford.
Help us reach more students
Recent editions
Each session brings new partner schools, new artists and new work. Here are some of our recent sessions, read the full story behind each one.
Meets Henri Matisse
2026 · with Whiteside Elementary
Students explored colour and shape, layering cut-paper elements into dynamic murals, self-portraits and playful collages inspired by Matisse.
“Color was not given to us in order that we should imitate Nature. It was given to us so that we can express our emotions.”
Henri Matisse
Meets Lichtenstein & Warhol
2025 · with Westwind & Jessie Wowk
Students explored 3D Pop Art with graphic outlines, high-contrast paint, Ben-Day dots and foam-board cutouts that leap off the page.
“Pop Art looks out into the world. It doesn't look like a painting of something, it looks like the thing itself.”
Roy Lichtenstein
Meets Tomoaki Murayama
2024 · with Westwind & James McKinney
Students explored the natural world with fine markers and white oil pastel, combining detailed 2D drawings with cut-paper and styrofoam 3D forms.
“Even in the small world that surrounds me, new worlds open up. The world is free, without borders.”
Tomoaki Murayama
Reach to Teach in pictures
Moments from our Reach to Teach sessions and celebrations, from young artists at work to their finished showcases. Click any photo to see it larger.
Reach to Teach questions
Who is Reach to Teach for?
Grade 6 and 7 students from Richmond schools, with a focus on families who might not otherwise be able to enrol their children in extracurricular arts.
Where does the program take place?
On site at our own Arts Conservatory at The Arts Connection, in partnership with local schools, so the students come to us to work alongside practising artists.
How long is a session, and how many students take part?
Each session runs about five months and welcomes around 60 students, two full classes from two different schools.
How much does it cost families?
Reach to Teach is provided at no cost to participating students, as part of our mission to make the arts accessible regardless of where you live or what you can afford.
How can my school or family get involved?
Schools can partner with us to bring Reach to Teach to their students, and supporters can help fund the program. Get in touch through our contact page.
How long has Reach to Teach been running?
Twelve years, reaching more than 900 Richmond students.