There are not many programs available for children currently, but thankfully, institutions like the Tate Museum and V&A offer programs for kids. However, these may not satisfy the diverse needs of preteens. Most formal art education starts at 16, but fortunately, UAL offers a program called ‘Future Creatives’ targeted at children aged 7 to 12, conducted in several locations.
In reality, children who want to pursue art often find it challenging to continuously engage in their interests, and most private art institutions tend to be overlooked by parents.
If more credible institutions, perhaps universities, offered a wider variety of classes for future generations, it would greatly benefit children. However, there seems to be a reluctance, possibly due to financial non-viability. Using iPads, children can experiment without material costs. But it’s not just about developing drawing skills; fostering imagination, exploring different mediums, and discovering personal interests are crucial. This approach ensures that children’s thinking remains unconfined and expansive when transitioning to digital formats.
My project explores the intersection of digital media evolution and preteen empowerment, aiming to navigate the complexities of the modern digital landscape where technology continually reshapes communication and creation. As the capabilities of smartphone cameras surge and a plethora of apps democratize video production, even for children, the project examines how this democratization impacts young minds.
In particular, the focus is on the double-edged nature of accessibility: while creative expression is unprecedentedly easy, the excessive exposure to digital content can overwhelm and potentially lead to dopamine-driven feedback loops, affecting concentration and satisfaction.
Using AI image generation as a tool to address time scarcity among teens, driven by packed schedules and the daunting gap between creative aspiration and skill. Using AI as a creative assistant, rather than a replacement, could foster both skill development and artistic expression, redirecting from consumption to creation.
My project seeks to balance leveraging the benefits of digital advances and mitigating the risks of excessive media consumption. It advocates for educational and parental frameworks that promote healthy digital habits, ensuring that children can harness digital tools to enhance their learning, creativity, and well-being.