Our Ministry
Redefine Arts is a ministry in the southeast of Amsterdam (Amsterdam Zuidoost) that reaches youth ages 9 to 18 through an afternoon and evening art program. We aim to create opportunities for our students to grow personally and artistically as they make art based on deeper themes like identity, family and community. Through using art as a conversation method, our goal is to empower our youth to think deeper and be a voice in their community. Our hope is that they in turn will become impactful members of society that bring opportunities and light to the next generation.
As artists, we know that beauty comes through consistent work, patience and small changes over time. We see this process no differently in the lives of our students as they wrestle with their identity, future, outlook and place in the world.
Discipleship & Art
Our ministry is called “Redefine” Arts because we firmly believe that every one of our students has a unique identity that has been placed inside of them. Through life’s experiences and societal pressures, children have learned to fit in rather than be true to that identity. Our goal then is not to give them a new definition but to redefine, renew, restore what already exists. We believe in their unique potential and empower them to bring change using their own voices.
Relationship-building and process are therefore very important to us. As artists, we know that beauty comes through consistent work, patience and small changes over time. We see this process no differently in the lives of our students as they wrestle with their identity, future, outlook and place in the world. Art for us is a means to dig deeper into these aspects of their lives and make these conversations approachable as it provides a low threshold for students to explore their own thoughts, emotions and journey.
A Safe Space
In the neighborhood where we work (H-buurt), there are not many public indoor spaces for children to come to after school. We notice that children who come to our studio desire connection, appreciation and attention, which gives us the unique opportunity to be a positive and encouraging influence in their lives.
At an age where they are discovering themselves, we can challenge them to love others and themselves, grow towards their potential and receive the acceptance we all crave as humans. This positive culture invigorates them in their actions and their future as well as their art-making. Our studio therefore is a consistent space where our students can receive constant guidance, advice and a positive influence.
Redefine Arts
Partnership
We are always happy to have people support our ministry! We are currently looking for more creative staff that can help teach and mentor our students. We hope to diversify our team with people that have different talents and experiences to enrich the program and those who have a heart for long-term discipleship and youth. If you cannot join full-time, giving a workshop in your skillset is always possible. Besides this, financial partners give us the opportunity to provide diverse art materials for our students and help pay for the use of our studio space. If you’d like to partner with us in either way, we’d be happy to hear from you.