Minneapolis, MN: Carla Hall Design is proud to announce the Twin Cities Pride 2024 Artists' Exhibit, showcasing the remarkable talents of LGBTQIA+ youth who have participated in the organization's groundbreaking Queer Youth Workshops. This powerful event aims to uplift marginalized voices, foster creativity, and inspire the next generation of diverse artists and leaders.
The 12-week program, made possible by a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, empowers participants to develop technical skills while channeling their unique identities and experiences into powerful works of art. The journey culminates in a public exhibition during the highly anticipated Twin Cities Pride festival, celebrating the resilience, creativity, and pride of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Carla Hall's passion for mentoring underrepresented youth in the industrial arts stems from her own experiences as a woman in a male-dominated field. Throughout her career, she has been a trailblazer, working tirelessly to break down barriers and create opportunities for those who have been traditionally excluded from these spaces. Her dedication to empowering the next generation of artists and leaders has been the driving force behind this program’s success.
This program has been the inspiration for the formation of the non-profit organization IAMA - Industrial Arts Mentorship for All. Founded by Carla Hall, IAMA’s goal is to transform young lives through accessible industrial arts training programs designed for underrepresented youth in the Twin Cities. The Queer Youth Workshops provide a safe, affirming space for LGBTQIA+ individuals aged 12-24 to explore metalworking, blacksmithing, and sculptural expression under the guidance of professional mentors.
"At IAMA, we believe in the power of art to inspire change and create a more equitable, compassionate world," said Carla Hall. "We are committed to uplifting LGBTQIA+ youth and providing them with the tools, skills, and platform to express themselves authentically. These young artists are not only shaping metal; they are shaping the future."
The Twin Cities Pride 2024 Artists' Exhibit Hall will feature the extraordinary sculptures and metalwork of Carla Hall and Dani Sanchez, the program instructors, and the four talented program participants: August, Blue, Nico, and Ellie/Salem.
August, an 18-year-old engineering student, brought his previous metalworking experience and infectious enthusiasm to the program, consistently motivating his peers. Blue, also 18, discovered a newfound passion for blacksmithing that allowed him to channel his digital art background into three-dimensional creations. 14-year-old Nico's prior experience with the craft enabled him to push his artistic boundaries and create deeply personal, emotive pieces. Ellie/Salem, 14, fearlessly explored the medium for the first time, infusing their youthful spirit and diverse creative background into their work.
"Through the generous support of our community, we can continue to offer transformative programs that build confidence, foster community, and amplify the voices of LGBTQIA+ youth," said Hall. "We invite everyone to visit the Twin Cities Pride 2024 Artists' Exhibit and witness the extraordinary talent and resilience of these young artists."
The Twin Cities Pride 2024 Artists' Exhibit will coincide with this year’s Pride festival in Minneapolis. The Art Exhibit will be Sunday, June 30th, from 4-6pm at 4430 Lyndale Ave N MPLS.
Attendees will have the opportunity to view the sculptures, engage with the young artists, create and stamp copper trinkets at the kid’s activity table, watch blacksmithing demonstrations and learn more about IAMA's ongoing initiatives to support underrepresented youth in the industrial arts.
For more information about Industrial Arts Mentorship for All and the Queer Youth Workshops, please visit https://iamayouth.org/.
About Industrial Arts Mentorship for All (IAMA)
Industrial Arts Mentorship for All (IAMA) is a Minneapolis-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing accessible industrial arts training programs for underrepresented youth in the Twin Cities. Through workshops, internships, and community partnerships, IAMA fosters confidence, skill-building, and creative expression in a supportive, inclusive environment. Learn more at https://iamayouth.org/.
Contact:
Carla Hall
Executive Director & Artist, Industrial Arts Mentorship for All
(510) 847-1735
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For more information about Industrial Arts Mentorship for All (IAMA), contact the company here:
Industrial Arts Mentorship for All (IAMA)
Carla Hall
(510) 847-1735
carla@iamayouth.org
Industrial Arts Mentorship for All
4430 N Lyndale Ave,
Minneapolis, MN 55412
