Teen Programs

Past Programs & Events

MFA Teen Poetry Fellowship & Workshop at the MFA

The Teen Poetry Fellowship at the MFA was a four-week paid program for high school students in grades 9–12 that explored the connection between visual art and creative writing through close looking, discussion, and mentorship. Inspired by the MFA’s global collection spanning nearly 5,000 years of human creativity, 13 students worked alongside MFA educators and guest poet Denzel Johnson-Green to develop original poetry in response to artworks in the galleries. The fellowship culminated in a published collection of student work and a live spoken-word performance at the MFA on Thursday, January 29 at 6:00 PM, with each participating student earning a $500 scholarship in support of their creative goals.

MFA Teens with Daisy & Honey | Conversations with a Creative

Teens joined the conversation as local artist and professional Nia Mitchell shared insights about her business. Nia, a designer, muralist, and artist in the St. Petersburg area, showcased her fun, positive, and carefree merch. Attendees listened as she talked about building a brand from the ground up and took advantage of an insightful Q&A.

MFA Teens with St. Pete Ceramics | Hand Building Workshop on July 9.

MFA Teens and our neighbors from St. Pete Ceramics gathered for a hand-building clay workshop, where teens tried their hand at building bowls inspired by Persian bowls from Nishapur made over 1000 years ago. It was a creative and casual class enjoyed with friends. Participants explored the galleries and then learned techniques from local ceramicists. This workshop was designed for 9th–12th grade visitors, who spent time hand-building their pieces, walking through the galleries, and then glazing their creations. St. Pete Ceramics took the finished pieces back to their studio to be fired, ready for pickup at the next MFA Teen program on July 23.

MFA Teens at Black Crow Coffee Co. on June 20.

MFA teamed up with Black Crow Coffee Co. (722 2nd St N location) to host an information table featuring merchandise and details about the upcoming MFA TAC program, along with the Summer Lineup. Teens had the opportunity to meet and chat with Nina Yankowitz in a casual setting over coffee, while connecting with other like-minded teens from the St. Pete area.

The Superintendent’s High School Exhibition of Excellence | April 5 – April 27

This spring, the MFA proudly hosted The Superintendent’s High School Exhibition of Excellence, a dynamic showcase of artwork by 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students from across Pinellas County. Featuring a wide range of media—including painting, sculpture, photography, film, and animation—the exhibition celebrated the creativity and skill of some of the district’s most accomplished young artists.

Artworks were submitted by local teachers and selected by a panel including Katherine Pill, the MFA’s Senior Curator of Contemporary Art, and Kimberlynn Martin, Director of Education & Engagement. The exhibition not only highlighted emerging talent but also provided students with the unique opportunity to have their work displayed in a museum setting.

On April 24, 2025, the MFA welcomed students, families, educators, and community members to a free evening open house honoring the featured artists. The event offered full access to the MFA Collection Galleries and a vibrant celebration of youth creativity in our region.

We thank Pinellas County Schools and all participating students and teachers for making this extraordinary exhibition possible.