Igniting creativity and community through the arts
At the Teen Institute, we are a community-driven organization dedicated to promoting creativity, artistic expression, and social change through our various programs and services. Founded in 2013 by Shari Wilkins, a visual artist and social practice expert, our mission is to provide a platform for young people to explore their creative potential, build community, and engage in meaningful discussions and actions that promote positive change.
Our Services
We offer a range of services and programs that cater to young people aged 13-18, providing them with opportunities to develop their artistic skills, build confidence, and engage with others who share similar interests and passions. Our programs and services include:
- Teen Fellowship: A program designed for young people who are passionate about the arts and social change. Participants have the opportunity to engage in workshops, mentorship, and project-based learning, as well as participate in external exhibitions and events.
- Exhibitions: We curate exhibitions that showcase the work of local and international artists, providing a platform for creative expression and intellectual discourse.
- Membership: Our membership program allows individuals to support our mission and engage with our community by accessing exclusive events, workshops, and exhibitions.
- Past Exhibitions: We have hosted numerous exhibitions and events in the past, featuring works by local and international artists, writers, and performers.
- Projects: We develop and implement projects that focus on social change, education, and community engagement, providing opportunities for young people to participate in meaningful projects that make a positive impact.
- Team: Our team is comprised of experienced artists, educators, and community leaders who are passionate about creating change and making a difference in the community.
Our organization is supported by generous grants and donations from various organizations, including Cuyahoga Arts & Culture (CAC) and the Ohio Arts Council (OAC).
At the Teen Institute, we believe that creativity, community, and social change are key components of a thriving society. We strive to provide a safe and inclusive space for young people to explore their creative potential, build confidence, and engage with others who share similar interests and passions.
Community Darkroom
In partnership with Cleveland State University, we are proud to offer a Community Darkroom, providing access to our facilities for film development and printing. We also offer workshops and classes, such as our B&W Darkroom Basics class, which teaches the basics of film development, proofing, and printing.
Get Involved
We invite you to join us in our mission to promote creativity, artistic expression, and social change. Whether you're an artist, educator, or simply someone who is passionate about making a positive impact, we welcome your involvement. We believe that by working together, we can create a more just and equitable society.
CPR Experience
The Cleveland Print Room (CPR) offers an exceptional experience for its members. Participants, including children, have reported having a lot of fun while making new friends. The organization is praised for its professionalism, personalized attention, and incredible presenters. The training programs, such as photography and Adobe Photoshop, have been commended for their immense value.
Community and Support
CPR fosters a sense of community among its members. The organization stays connected with participants, offers interesting opportunities, and showcases work in a gallery and online. The monthly membership fee of $35 is considered a bargain for the benefits received.
Galleries and Events
The CPR hosts bi-monthly photography gallery shows, which are free and open to the public. These events provide an excellent platform for local artists and art lovers to connect. The space is also used for workshops and studio sessions, allowing members to explore their own work and share ideas with fellow artists.
Darkroom Experience
The darkroom is a highlight of the CPR experience. Members praise the friendly and knowledgeable staff, and the fact that they often have the space to themselves. In contrast, other darkrooms are overcrowded, making CPR a desirable destination.
