WHAM does a great job engaging with teenagers interested in art, allowing them to express themselves through different mediums.”

Matt Mooney | Thunderbird Charities president

IF YOU GO

What: WHAM Teen Art Club

When: 4:30-6:30 p.m. on the first and third Wednesdays of each month

Where: WHAM Art Center, 16560 N. Dysart Road

Cost: $10 per class for members and $15 per class for non-members; $35 for a year’s membership

Information: wham-art.org

Young, local artists who create work for the Teen WHAM Art Program through the Surprise-based WHAM Art Association are about to receive more supplies to complete their projects.

Thunderbirds Charities recently donated $5,000 to WHAM for its inclusive teen program that offers a space for self-expression through art for both experienced and beginning artists.

Matt Mooney, president of Thunderbirds Charities, said his group is proud to support the teen art program, which was created to fill the gap left by diminishing art programs in local schools.

“WHAM does a great job engaging with teenagers interested in art, allowing them to express themselves through different mediums,” Mooney said. “This program is a wonderful example of bringing the community together through the joy of art.”

WHAM officials praised Thunderbirds Charities for its commitment to young artists. They said the grant will provide critical support for outreach efforts and essential art supplies for every session.

The Teen WHAM Art Program meetings take place from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at the WHAM Art Center, 16560 N. Dysart Road.

The cost is $10 per class for members and $15 per class for non-members. The cost of an annual membership is $35.

In-house artist Ashley Dooley will lead each session to explore new artistic techniques through hands-on projects.

Recent activities include oil pastel resist watercolor, recycled CD mosaics, acrylic abstract painting, resin keychains and white charcoal still life drawing.

Teen WHAM raises awareness and expands access to creative opportunities through outreach to schools and teens. By fostering ongoing engagement, mentorship, and creative exploration, the Teen WHAM Art Program empowers youth to grow personally and artistically.