Group of high school age students

Wyoming Youth Arts Council

This is where creative leadership begins.

Empowering Creative Youth Leaders Across Wyoming

The Wyoming Youth Arts Council (WYAC) is a statewide initiative that empowers high school students (ages 15–19) to lead through the arts. This eight-month program connects students with peers and mentors, fosters creative exploration, and gives young artists the opportunity to create meaningful change in their communities through hands-on arts leadership experiences.

Meet the 2026–2027 Youth Arts Council

The Wyoming Arts Council is proud to announce the inaugural members of the 2026–2027 Wyoming Youth Arts Council. Over the next year, these students will take part in leadership training, statewide arts conversations, and a youth-led creative project designed to strengthen Wyoming’s arts ecosystem while providing workforce development opportunities.

2026–2027 WYAC Cohort Members

  • Rebecca Allen, Pinedale
  • Anna Durrant, Rock Springs
  • Marshall Grover, Sheridan
  • Adrienne Jones, Pinedale
  • Sadie Kruseck, Cheyenne
  • Jude Larsen, Evansville
  • Grace Lyles, Cheyenne
  • Layne Parks, Casper
  • Hannah Redmond, Laramie
  • Natalie Reilley, Lander
  • Sofia Rose, Cheyenne
  • Mairi Schilling, Jackson
  • Austin Sears, Powell
  • Osbourne Tower, Riverton
  • Lillian Vance, Pinedale

Returning Members

  • Liv Edmunds, Torrington
  • Hannah Nielson, Mountain View
  • Hollis Nielsen, Riverton
  • Livvy Wilson, Casper

2026–2027 Meeting Schedule

The Wyoming Youth Arts Council meets once a month on Monday evenings from 6:00–7:30 PM. The meeting schedule for 2026/2027 is as follows:

  • Monday, September 14. 6-7:30pm
  • Monday, October 12. 6-7:30pm
  • Monday, November 16, 6-7:30pm
  • Monday, December 14, 6-7:30pm
  • Monday, January 11, 6-7:30pm
  • Monday, February 8, 6-7:30pm
  • Monday, March 15, 6-7:30pm
  • Monday, April 12, 6-7:30pm
  • Monday, May 10, 6-7:30pm

Why It Matters

Launched in 2025, the Youth Arts Council supports the next generation of creative leaders in Wyoming. The program helps students develop essential life skills—like communication, collaboration, and problem-solving—while encouraging them to use their artistic voice to make a meaningful impact.

Participants gain insight into careers in the creative sector, connect with mentors and fellow youth artists, and co-create a collaborative project that reflects their experiences, goals, and passions. By equipping young people with tools for leadership and advocacy, the program builds a stronger, more inclusive future for Wyoming’s arts community.

Program Goals

  • Leadership Development: Build strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
  • Creative Exploration: Explore careers in the creative sector, arts policy, and the creative economy.
  • Hands-On Learning: Participate in workshops on grant writing, arts education, and arts programming.
  • Mentorship: Engage with peers, mentors, and professionals across the state.
  • Youth-Led Projects: Create and lead a collaborative project that reflects your artistic and leadership journey.

Program Details

The Wyoming Arts Council invites high school students across the state to apply for the Youth Arts Council. Up to 15 students will be selected to serve an eight-month term from September through May. The program includes regular virtual meetings and creative project planning, with opportunities for in-person events based on location and availability.

Who Should Apply

Students aged 15–19 who are:

  • Passionate about any creative discipline (visual arts, music, writing, theater, etc.)
  • Interested in leadership, arts advocacy, or community engagement
  • Excited to connect with other student artists across the state
  • Committed to participating in a year-long leadership experience
    No previous leadership experience is required.

What Participants Can Expect

  • Monthly virtual meetings with peers and mentors
  • Workshops on grant writing, advocacy, community building, and programming
  • Conversations about the arts in Wyoming, including opportunities, challenges, and community impact
  • One-on-one conversations with artists to explore creative careers and build professional connections
  • Participation in a youth-led statewide arts project
  • A stipend for each Council member

Code of Conduct

The WYAC is a space for connection, collaboration, and leadership. The Code of Conduct outlines expectations for all participants.

View the WYAC Code of Conduct Here

How to Apply

Applications/nominations are currently closed and will reopen on April 13, 2026.

Timeline (Dates are subject to change)

  • Applications & Nominations Open: April 13, 2026
  • Nominations Close: August 6, 2026
  • Applications Close: August 10, 2026
  • Selection Notification: August 24-28, 2026

To apply or nominate someone else, use this link via Submittable.com:

Apply Here
Previous WYAC Members

2025/2026

  • Fern Birdsbill – Gillette
  • Viviana Deurloo – Casper
  • Avenlee Downey – Moorcroft
  • Olivia Edmunds – Torrington
  • Sawyer Massie – Torrington
  • Alayna Mellin – Casper
  • Hollis Nielsen – Riverton
  • Hannah Nielson – Fort Bridger
  • August Schneider – Casper
  • Sydney Stephan – Casper
  • Olivia Stephens – Casper
  • Caden Thacker – Greybull
  • Aquinnah Wiblemo – Riverton
  • Olivia (Livvy) Wilson – Casper

Want more information?

Contact Amara Fehring, Community Development and Arts Learning Specialist, below.

Email Call